The International North West 200 is to have the support of Vauxhall Motors Ltd for the 2017 event on May 7-13, the company’s fifth year in a row as principal backer of the north coast races.

“Vauxhall Motors are delighted to return as title sponsors for another year and are looking forward to reaching out to thousands of motorcycle fans through our sponsorship of this great event.” Gordon Hannen, Vauxhall Regional Operations Manager for Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man said after making the announcement at the NW200 paddock.

The Vauxhall chief was joined for the announcement by two of the stars of the 2016 event, Alastair Seeley and Ian Hutchinson. Hutchinson, who won the 2016 Superstock race, will return to next year’s races with the Tyco BMW squad but Seeley is still seeking machinery for the new campaign. The Carrickfergus rider became the North West’s most successful racer last May with his double Supersport triumph on the Gear Link Kawasaki moving him to 17 wins in the all-time list.

The securing of Vauxhall’s continued sponsorship is a huge boost for Event Director Mervyn Whyte, MBE, and his North West 200 team.

“We are delighted to have agreed another deal with Vauxhall and furthermore they have an option to extend that into year two, potentially taking the commitment in total to six years.” Whyte explained.

“The finance, vehicle fleet and significant branding around the circuit which are provided to us by Vauxhall are vital in running an International event each year.”

“The support package supplied by Vauxhall UK demonstrates their commitment to our International event in Northern Ireland and undoubtedly helps us to attract the best road racers in the world to our grid.”