Jonathan Rea says his OBE in the Queen's New Year Honours is further evidence that Northern Ireland "is indeed the home of motorcycling".
The six-times World Superbike champion narrowly missed out on defending his throne this year as he was edged out by Turkish rider Toprak Razgatlioglu.
But the 34-year-old's achievements have already gone down in history, writing Rea's name into the pantheon of motorcycling's elite band of racers.
Speaking after being appointed an OBE in the New Year Honours, the 34-year-old believes the recognition helps shine a light on Northern Ireland's ongoing success in the sport - both on the track and in road racing.
He said: “I am extremely grateful and deeply honoured to receive an OBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours list.
"While it has come as a welcome surprise, I am so pleased that my sport has been recognised and I am very proud to represent Northern Ireland and the UK in motorsport around the world.
“It is an amazing moment for me and my family who are always there to support me and that is reflected in the whole Kawasaki Racing Team, as well as the support from my friends and fans around the globe.
“On an international level it demonstrates that Northern Ireland is indeed the home of motorcycling.
"From road racing right through to World Superbike, we really do punch above our weight, so it is a real privilege to be given an honour like this, in recognition of my racing achievements."
