Glenn Irwin joins BMW-backed GRYD Racing for 2027

Glenn Irwin will race for GRYD Racing in 2027, joining the BMW-backed team after finishing 14th in the 2026 British Superbike Championship. BBC Sport NI reported that the Northern Ireland rider will use an Alpha Racing-prepared BMW M 1000 RR for the outfit co-owned by Michael Laverty and David Eltherington.

The 36-year-old will line up alongside English rider Storm Stacey. Speaking on the BBC Bikes podcast, Irwin said he was looking forward to learning from his new team-mate and sharing his own experience. He had been concerned about whether a suitable opportunity would be available for next season before the GRYD move emerged.

Irwin's decision follows a campaign affected by injuries, crashes and technical problems, according to Stephen Watson's BBC Sport NI report. He also struggled to adapt to Ducati's new Panigale V4R as his championship challenge failed to develop. There were still positive results, including a podium finish at Knockhill and further success at the North West 200, despite his final position in the standings.

The North West 200 was an important consideration in choosing his next team. Irwin, who has won 12 Superbike races at the event, wanted machinery that could be competitive in both British Superbikes and road racing. The BBC reported that BMW's record at the North West 200 and Stacey's performances there helped make the new arrangement attractive to him.

Irwin has twice finished second in the British Superbike Championship. In 2023, he lost the title to then team-mate Tommy Bridewell by half a point. Reflecting on his more difficult 2026 season, he acknowledged periods of self-doubt but said there had also been moments that reinforced his belief in his ability to compete at the front.

The move gives Irwin a new team and motorcycle, but he stopped short of treating a return to winning as assured. He said he still had to perform against younger riders and continue improving, pointing to Leon Haslam and Bridewell as examples of experienced competitors. His aim is to use the fresh opportunity to challenge at the front again.