Rain stops play for Honda Racing UK at the North West 200

Glenn Irwin

Qualifying today was so good, I had a good feeling from the first lap and set about our work, and to go under the faster-ever lap by two seconds, is something that pleases me a lot and again shows the potential of the Fireblade as a roads package, as well as our potential for this weekend. To back up the Superbike pole position, with the Superstock pole position just shows the package that we have. It was great to see so many spectators around the track this morning cheering me on. I spoke with John [McGuinness] about this evening's Superstock race and spoke with some riders in the 600 race, and made the decision to sit it out. I have a young family and racing on the roads in the rain is not a risk I'm willing to take, so sorry to the fans but I'm sure everyone will understand, and we'll be back in action on Saturday. 

#1 John McGuinness MBE

I'm really enjoying this week, it's been great, we're learning loads, the Fireblade's going great and we've been working well as a team. Glenn is on fire and it's just all super positive, it's the first time the Honda has been on the roads and to get pole in both of the big classes, everyone here has a smile on their face! Today has really built my confidence back on the roads and going back to the big bikes takes a bit of figuring out, but everything is coming. It's disappointing with the weather this evening and I'm disappointed to not get out there, it's my first time back here on the 1000cc Fireblade and I'm just a bit unsure in wet conditions, so we'll save it until Saturday!