The King Meets The King

The TT’s most successful rider, Michael Dunlop, has officially collected his MBE, and where better than Windsor Castle itself?

The 36-year-old from Ballymoney, who’s racked up an unbelievable 33 TT wins (yep, thirty-three), was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours earlier this year for his outstanding contribution to motorcycling and sport.

Today (Tuesday), Dunlop made the trip to Berkshire to receive the honour from King Charles, sharing the spotlight with none other than Sir David Beckham, who was knighted the same day.

Not your average Tuesday, really.

After collecting his medal, the Northern Irish road racing icon said: ‘I’m deeply honoured. It’s a privilege to have my work and achievements recognised in this way.’

The moment also carries a bit of family history. Michael now joins his legendary uncle Joey Dunlop on the royal honours list, Joey received his MBE back in 1986 and an OBE ten years later.

From tearing down Bray Hill to bowing before the King, it’s been quite the journey for the Ballymoney man