Ulster Grand Prix bosses have revealed a whopping entry list for this year’s festival which breaks all previous records and features the much-anticipated clash between Ian Hutchinson and Michael Dunlop - but there will be no Guy Martin (click here).

Contenders, 137 of them, at the international road race will come from 16 countries around the world, where more than 50,000 spectators are expected to watch them compete at the legendary Dundrod circuit with 54 of the competitors coming to this year’s Plant Lubrication (NI) Dundrod 150 and MCE Insurance Ulster Grand Prix are classed as newcomers to the event, in another record tally.

“I think it goes without saying that I’m very pleased with the final entry list and think it says a lot about the popularity of the event that the total number of entries are growing year on year, as is the number of newcomers coming to Dundrod. The fact that they come from so many different countries is good news for Tourism Northern Ireland too, as we are one of their flagship events,” said Noel Johnston, clerk of the course.

“The two guys that everyone has been talking about; Michael Dunlop and Ian Hutchinson will both be there gunning for the top step of the podium, as well other major talents including Dean Harrison, Ivan Lintin, Lee Johnston, William Dunlop, Peter Hickman, Bruce Anstey, Dan Kneen, Conor Cummins and Christian Elkin.

“I’m also looking forward to seeing one of the higher profile newcomer’s first outing at the Ulster - Gary Dunlop. His Dad loved Dundrod and it’s going to be something special to see him there. I’ve never let anyone since Joey ride as number three, but who better to use it than Gary and I think it’ll be pretty special to see it on the grid after all these years.”