Up to 60 officials, representing the MCUI (Ulster Centre) Marshals Association, will display the armbands during both practice sessions for the North West 200 on Tuesday and Thursday evening and on race day.

Finnegan had signed to ride for the JMF Millsport Racing Yamaha this year and team members will also wear the armbands as a tribute to the Lusk star, who died after losing control of his 600cc Supersport machine at Tandragee.

Paul McAteer, vice-chairman of the association, said: "The decision was taken following discussions with Billy Lyons of Millsport Motorcycles and with the blessing of the JMF team and we feel that it would be an appropriate tribute to Martin Finnegan.

"Alastair Seeley will still ride for the JMF Millsport Team at the North West and the team members will also wear the armbands as a mark of respect."

Speaking of Finnegan's death, NW Clerk of Course, Mervyn Whyte said: "Motorcycling is a dangerous sport but at this time no one seems to know what caused the crash.

"Finnegan was an experienced rider and would have been the big name at the North West 200. I can only say how sorry we feel at his death."

Ryan Farquar, who described the Finnegan crash as the worst he has ever seen, has gone on record saying he could quit the sport soon.

He added: "This could possibly be my last year in road racing. I'm not saying it will be but it is possible.

"It could just as easily have been me that was killed on Saturday and I know it's not fair on my wife and child but it's like a drug and I love the sport.

"I have one major ambition left to fulfil, to win a major Superbike race."

"Martin's passing is a big, big loss to the sport and I know he loved the sport, just like I do," added Farquhar.

Guy Martin also paid tribute to the Lusk man: "I'd like to offer my deepest condolences to all the friends and family of Martin Finnegan. Martin was a good friend and the big man will be sorely missed."