Advertisement

Michael Dunlop to pay homage to his uncle Joey on 25th anniversary of iconic Isle of Man TT hat-trick

A picture of Michael Dunlop and [inset] Joey Dunlop
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


Michael Dunlop will pay a special tribute to his uncle Joey with a special demonstration lap at this year's Classic TT.

On the 25th anniversary of Joey's iconic hat-trick of wins at the Isle of Man TT fans will got to relive the passion, drama, and triumph of one of the sport’s all-time greats through immersive experiences, exhibitions, and heartfelt tributes to honour the man whose name is synonymous with TT greatness.

The 2025 Classic TT will reach its emotional pinnacle on Friday, 29th August, with a special demonstration lap paying homage to Joey’s final TT. His nephew, Michael ­– now the most successful TT rider in history after breaking records in 2024 – will take to the Mountain Course aboard a replica of Joey’s 2000 factory Honda VTR SP1.

READ MORE: Ulster University vs DCU LIVE stream of Sigerson Cup semi-final clash 

READ MORE: Jim Magilton hopes Cliftonville new boy can become the Wizard of Oz at Solitude

While Michael has forged his own legacy, this lap will be more than a tribute ­– it’s a bridge between two generations of Dunlop brilliance, a testament to a family that has defined TT history for decades.

The year 2000 is immortalised in Isle of Man TT history. At the dawn of a new millennium, Joey, already a living legend, delivered a performance for the ages. Racing a factory Honda SP1 in the Formula 1 TT, the Ballymoney icon defied rising competition and the passage of time to seize a victory that remains one of the Mountain Course’s most celebrated moments.

But Joey wasn’t done. That year, he completed a stunning hat-trick, adding 250cc and 125cc victories to his tally. With his 26th and final TT win, he closed the book on an extraordinary career, leaving a legacy that transcended mere statistics.

From 20th – 29th August, fans can step into the world of Joey Dunlop through an exclusive pop-up exhibition. Original memorabilia from the Dunlop family collection – including Joey’s race leathers, helmets, and trophies – will be on display, telling the story of his unforgettable Formula 1 TT victory in 2000.

Adding extra insight into the rivalries and camaraderie that defined the era, the exhibition will also feature a number of personal keepsakes from John McGuinness and Michael Rutter, who finished second and third that day. This free-to-access exhibition, enriched with bespoke artwork and immersive storytelling, will transport fans back to a golden age of TT racing.

On Thursday, 29th August, the TT Grandstand Stage will host a special live edition of The TT Podcast, bringing the 2000 Formula 1 TT to life through the voices of those who lived it. Fans will hear from John McGuinness, Michael Rutter, key team members, commentators, and the Dunlop family as they unveil untold stories and behind-the-scenes moments of one of the TT’s most iconic races. From the intensity of track battles to the deep camaraderie in the paddock, this event will offer fans a rare glimpse into the human drama behind the history-making ride.

To further honor Joey’s legacy, a pop-up cinema will showcase the defining moments of his career. Fans can relive the 2000 Formula 1 TT, revisit his greatest triumphs on the Mountain Course, and enjoy exclusive screenings of documentaries that celebrate the life and legend of one of motorcycle racing’s greatest icons.

Whether you’re exploring the pop-up exhibition, watching highlights at the cinema, witnessing Michael's tribute lap, or hearing stories from those who lived it, the 2025 Classic TT will capture the spirit of a true legend.

Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox