Road racing is set to return to the Republic of Ireland after it was confirmed that a number of popular events will run in 2025. There has been no racing in the south since 2022 due to difficulties in obtaining adequate insurance.

The recently formed RRAI (Road Race Alliance Ireland) has announced that the Walderstown, Faugheen 50 and Athea road races will be held this year.

The RRAI - which split from Motorcycling Ireland last October - includes a number of road racing clubs. The group issued a statement on Facebook to announce the news.

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The organisation said: "After what seems like an eternity since the last motorcycle races took to the roads here in the Southern Centre, the RRAI are pleased to announce that the organisation has in fact secured an insurance policy to cover several events for 2025.

"Ever since the Road Race Clubs took the unenviable decision to leave Motorcycling Ireland last October, diligent work was undertaken by the Clubs to work together under the RRAI umbrella and leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of securing a policy that will result in our sport returning to where it belongs, among the hedges and roads in the Republic."

it is hoped that a number of other events can return this year, as the sport looks to rebuild following a difficult three years.

The southern coverage will complement road racing in Northern Ireland, with the Cookstown 100, North West 200, Tandragee 100 and the Armoy road races pencilled in for 2025.

"The work undertaken by the RRAI and the clubs had resulted in an insurance policy that covers road races here in the South, and while there is significant work ahead, we feel that it is wholly achievable," the statement added.

"At present we can confirm that several road races will take place in 2025, Walderstown, the Faugheen 50 and the return of Athea in Co Limerick, however we are exploring other events for 2025, and we will update you all in due course with the confirmed dates."

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