Glenn Irwin says he “enjoys and thrives” in the intense environment of the British Superbike Championship as he targets his first title.
Irwin is a three-time runner-up in and will ride a Ducati for Nitrous Competitions Racing in 2026.
Despite an ongoing “niggle” in his shoulder, the 36-year-old said he had a “good pre-season” as the team adapts to new Ducati machinery.
“We have the package, the tools and I think the best engineers in the paddock,” Irwin told BBC Sport NI.
“The guys have worked flat out around the clock so a huge thanks to them for their effort.”
Irwin, who had an injury-hit year in 2025, is joined in the team by reigning BSB champion Kyle Ryde, who won the title at the final round of the season last year.
The BSB season starts at Oulton Park from 2-4 May and Irwin will head straight back to his native Northern Ireland after the season opener to race at the North West 200.
Irwin, who took a year off racing at the international road race, will look to extend his record of 11 wins in the Superbike class.
“They are two very different things. BSB is a very intense environment, which is one I thoroughly enjoy and thrive on,” Irwin told BBC Sport NI.
“The North West feels like a holiday for me, as I’ve always said.
“I go there for a bit of rest and relaxation, win a few races all being well and come back to Donington [for the second BSB round] recharged.”
