As he nears the record of 26 victories at the event set by his esteemed late uncle Joey, Michael Dunlop thinks the unpredictable nature of the Isle of Man TT racing means he may “win all eight” solo races this year or “win none.”

Twelve months ago, Dunlop's third four-timer of his career in the IOM TT brought him to within one win of the record, which had stood since Joey's triple in June 2000.

A month subsequent to his ultimate triumphs on the Mountain Course, Joey, a 48-year-old Northern Irishman, met his demise in an accident at a competition in Estonia.

In an attempt to raise his personal record, Dunlop will participate in the Superbike and Senior races, both Superstock events, the two Supersport races, and the Supertwins races.

“The TT is a really challenging location. You can only do what you can and what will be will be.”

“I'll keep working hard. All I want to do is try to win races by moving as fast as I can.

“All I'm trying to do is get better. I am not attempting to outdo somebody who is not present.”