Sport Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has congratulated Jonathan Rea on securing the FIM World Superbike Championship.
The County Antrim rider sealed the title today at Jerez in Spain with five races to spare and becomes the first local motorcycling world champion since 1986.
Hailing Jonathan’s achievement, the Minister said: “Winning the World Superbike Championship is a phenomenal achievement for Jonathan and it caps a remarkable season in which he has finished on the podium in almost every race.
“Jonathan has been riding motorcycles most of his life and has always been a fierce competitor. Having originally favoured motocross, Jonathan only switched to circuit racing in 2003. To become world champion a little over 10 years later is testament to his skill, determination and commitment.
“Jonathan becomes the north’s fourth world motorcycle champion, after Joey Dunlop, Brian Reid and Ralph Bryans. Jonathan now joins this illustrious list of motorcycling legends.
“I offer huge congratulations to Jonathan and the Kawasaki team and hope this title can be a springboard for further success in future.”
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