Dean Harrison wins opening race of 2026 Southern 100

Honda rider sets new lap record in commanding victory

Honda rider, Dean Harrison swept to a commanding win in the opening race of the 2026 Southern 100 Road Races this morning (8 July).

Having set the standard in qualifying, the now-Island resident claimed top spot in the seven-lap Peel Holdings Senior Race, setting a new lap record for that race of two minutes, 12.174 seconds in the process.

His pace saw him finish just over ten seconds ahead of Manxman, Nathan Harrison in second whilst 14-time TT winner, Peter Hickman took third on his racing debut at the meeting.

Separately this morning, final qualifying took place for the Classic Sidecar machines with newcomer driver, Will Smith and passenger, Andy Smith quickest at two minutes, 49.886 seconds

That was nearly seven seconds faster than the next nearest duo of Dave Molyneux and Dan Sayle (two minutes, 56.745 seconds) whilst the fastest pairing so far in qualifying of Kieran Clarke and Rob Coppock were a retirement during the session.

Roads have now reopened around the Billown Course but will close again later at 6pm.

Five more races are currently scheduled for tonight, after which roads around the course will open again no later than 9.40pm.

All timings remain subject to change depending on prevailing conditions and circumstances.

You can view the current schedule for tonight's racing below:

Wednesday, 8 July 2026 (Evening Session)

6pm - Roads Close
6.20pm - Mike Kerruish Plumbing & Heating Lightweight/Sportbike Race (6 Laps)
7pm - Ellan Vannin Fuels Senior Race (7 Laps)
7.40pm - JCK 600cc B Race (7 Laps)
8.15pm - H&H Motorcycles 600cc Race (7 Laps)
8.45pm - Ace Hire Classic Sidecar Race (4 Laps)
9.40pm - Roads reopen (no later than)