Tyre giant Metzeler has signed a deal with Ulster GP boses which means it will be the road race's title sponsor until the end of 2015.

Commenting on the deal, President of the Dundrod and District Motorcycle Club, James Courtney said: “We are very happy to announce our partnership with Metzeler, a world renowned organisation that understands and shares the passion that we have for road racing. It’s an acknowledgement of the hard work we’ve put in to raise the overall status and profile of the event.

“Metzeler has made a serious commitment to the Ulster Grand Prix and it marks a new beginning for the event, allowing us to reinforce our efforts to deliver a spectacular show for competitors and spectators alike.

“As a Club we have been working hard to identify possible partners that share our vision and who can help us to drive the event forward. We have definitely found that in Metzeler and look forward to working closely with them over the next few years.

“We are lucky to have such good sponsors and supporters and would like to take this opportunity to thank them. The event wouldn’t be possible without organisations such as Lisburn City Council, Sport NI, 2 and 4 Wheels and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, as well as the Ulster Grand Prix Supporters Club and our private sector sponsors. We will have some more announcements to make on this front in the coming weeks,” he added.