Dunlop will ride a CBR1000-RR Fireblade for Honda at the North West 200 and Isle of Man TT next year, joining TT icon John McGuinness and Michael Rutter as Honda’s official line-up for the international road races.

It is a major coup for 23-year-old Dunlop, who becomes a works rider for the first time after winning three races on the Mountain course at the TT in privately run teams.

He claimed his maiden TT success in 2009 in the Supersport class before adding a victory in the Superstock race in 2011.

Dunlop sealed his third victory in June with a runaway success in the second Supersport race at the famous event and also notched a treble at the Ulster Grand Prix in August after a stunning five-timer at the Southern 100.

His brother, William, also has factory support for 2013 after confirming his plans to ride for Shaun Muir’s Milwaukee Yamaha team on the ex-Ian Hutchinson machines at the NW200, TT and Ulster Grand Prix.

William will also ride in the British Supersport Championship next year in addition to the international road races.

The boys are following in the footsteps of their father, Robert and uncle, Joey, who also signed for factory teams during their illustrious careers, riding works machines for Norton and Honda respectively.