Michael Dunlop Confirmed for Cookstown 100 After Le Mans Crash

Michael Dunlop Confirmed for Cookstown 100 After Le Mans Crash

Ardee News and Sport – Michael Dunlop Confirmed for Cookstown 100 After Le Mans Crash

29-time TT winner “keen to get back on the bike” ahead of North West 200

Michael Dunlop has been announced as a late entry for the 2024 Cookstown 100, just days after a crash at the Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race in France. The Ballymoney man, who holds a record-breaking 29 Isle of Man TT victories, will line up this weekend for the first event of the Irish road racing season.

Back on Track After Le Mans Crash

The 35-year-old suffered a heavy fall at Le Mans last weekend but has since recovered enough to return to competitive action.

“I’m not too bad, just a few bumps and bruises… black and blue one side and black and blue the other side,” Dunlop told BBC Sport NI.

“Whatever way I landed, I got a bit of a doing, but my suit and helmet did a great job. I’m black and blue from the impact but no broken bones.”

Testing Ahead of the North West 200

Dunlop is currently preparing Ducati V2 and Superstock machines as part of his build-up to the North West 200, which begins on 7 May. While he continues to fine-tune his Superbike setup, he remains confident about the weeks ahead.

“We’ve a bit of work to do with the Superbike,” he said. “We were left high and dry a little bit and we’re working hard to get it done. Hopefully we get out on it very shortly and at the North West put a show on.”

Focused on 2024 After Record-Breaking Year

Dunlop made history last year by overtaking his uncle Joey Dunlop’s all-time TT record, a moment he admits lifted a significant weight.

“Last year, the TT was obviously the main objective,” he added. “I was just a bit disappointed with the North West. Picking up an injury there last year hindered me. I’m looking forward to getting to the North West and having a real good go at it.”

All Eyes on Cookstown

Dunlop’s presence at Cookstown adds serious star power to the season opener, with fans eager to see how he performs following his recent crash. The exact races he’ll compete in have yet to be confirmed, but one thing is certain — Michael Dunlop is back, and he means business.

📍 Cookstown 100 – This Weekend

📅 North West 200 – Begins 7 May

🏍️ Michael Dunlop – 29-Time Isle of Man TT Winner