The Comets have moved to fill the vacant reserve berth with 19-year-old Perry, who arrives with previous Championship experience after riding for Glasgow Tigers last season.

Perry Joins Comets Line-Up

Perry, from Hungerford, narrowly missed out on securing a place in the Championship at the start of the current campaign but now gets his opportunity with Workington.

The club believe he can provide valuable points from the reserve position and strengthen the side in that department, while his previous form at the GT Tyres Arena is expected to help him settle quickly.

Workington promoter Andrew Bain said:

“Max is someone we’ve been keeping an eye on, and when the opportunity came up we felt it was the right move for both the rider and the club.

He’s shown he can compete at this level and we believe he can come in and score the points we need from reserve.

He’s hungry to get going and he also has a good track record around Northside, and we’re confident he’ll settle in quickly and make a positive contribution to the team.”

Perry is set to make his debut for the Comets this Friday (May 1) away at Scunthorpe in the BSN Series, subject to BSPL approval.

Etherington Departs by Mutual Agreement

The move follows confirmation that the club and Jamie Etherington have mutually agreed to part ways.

It is understood that the step up to Championship level proved challenging for the young rider, and after discussions following the recent MAXiCab Knockout Cup fixtures against Berwick, both parties agreed that a change was in the best interests of his long-term development.

Workington reiterated their commitment to supporting British talent, with the decision taken to ensure Etherington’s progression in the sport is not affected.

The club thanked Etherington for his efforts in Comets colours and wished him well for the future.

The changes see Workington bring in fresh options at reserve, with Perry given an opportunity to establish himself at Championship level, while Etherington looks to continue his development elsewhere.

Images courtesy of Workington Speedway

The post Max Perry joins the Workington Comets appeared first on Speedway Hub UK.

The Bandits built a decisive advantage with a dominant first-leg performance at Shielfield Park before the Comets responded with a home win in the return fixture, although the deficit proved too large to overturn.

First Leg: Berwick Take Control

Berwick produced a powerful display on home shale to record a 58-32 victory, establishing a commanding lead in the tie.

A run of 5-1 advantages in the opening stages saw the Bandits surge ahead, opening up a significant gap that ultimately proved decisive.

The meeting included several key incidents, including a controversial Heat 4 decision which saw Craig Cook excluded after a referee review, and a heavy crash in Heat 8 involving Niklas Holm Jakobsen and Reid Battye, with both riders withdrawn.

Peter Kildemand led the scoring for Berwick with a 12-point maximum, while Victor Palovaara (11) and Nick Morris (9) also contributed strongly. For Workington, Jonas Jeppesen top scored with 9, supported by Dayle Wood on 8+2.

Second Leg: Comets Hit Back

Workington responded with a 48-42 victory in the second leg at the GT Tyres Arena, but Berwick’s first-leg advantage ensured progression.

Despite being without Craig Cook and Niklas Holm Jakobsen, the Comets produced a strong team performance, led by Jonas Jeppesen, who delivered a faultless 18-point maximum.
Troy Batchelor (12) and Tate Zischke (11+1) provided key support as Workington attempted to reduce the aggregate deficit.

Berwick, however, remained composed, with Peter Kildemand again leading the way with 10+1, while Jye Etheridge, Victor Palovaara and Lasse Fredriksen all added solid scores.

The Bandits confirmed their progression in Heat 11, with a 4-2 from Kildemand and Etheridge securing the aggregate result.

🗣️ Reaction

Workington temporary team boss Baz Collins reflected on a challenging weekend but praised his team’s response:

“It was a night to forget at Berwick, we just weren’t getting out the starts in the first half of the meeting which seemed crucial.

“We had some torrid luck regarding the Heat 4 decision and then obviously the injury to Niklas and Craig – but I was proud of the lads in the second half of the meeting to actually outscore the hosts.

“I was pleased with how the lads responded on Sunday, the odds were very much against us with a patched up side, but they all delivered a great team effort.

“An 18-point maximum from Jonas was unbelievable and to do it in those circumstances in Heat 15 was something special.”

Berwick team manager Stewart Dickson said his side showed professionalism to complete the job:

“We were focused and professional about it and got the job done.

“It’s been a long time since the club reached the latter stages of the Cup but we are certainly not there to make up the numbers.

“It was a good all-round performance and we need to keep it going.”

Scores

First Leg
Berwick 58: Peter Kildemand 12, Victor Palovaara 11, Nick Morris 9, Jye Etheridge 8+2, Jack Smith 7+1, Reid Battye 6+3, Lasse Fredriksen 5+3
Workington 32: Jonas Jeppesen 9, Dayle Wood 8+2, Troy Batchelor 5+1, Craig Cook 5, Tate Zischke 4, Jamie Etherington 1, Niklas Holm Jakobsen 0

Second Leg
Workington 48: Jonas Jeppesen 18, Troy Batchelor 12, Tate Zischke 11+1, Mitchell Cluff 4+1, Dayle Wood 3, Jamie Etherington 0, Craig Cook r/r
Berwick 42: Peter Kildemand 10+1, Jye Etheridge 7+1, Victor Palovaara 7, Lasse Fredriksen 7+1, Jordy Loftus 5+1, Nick Morris 4, Jack Smith 2+2

Images courtesy of Keith Hamblin

The post Berwick progress to Knockout Cup Semi-Finals despite Workington fightback appeared first on Speedway Hub UK.

The result leaves Oxford well placed in the Southern Section, with qualification for the semi-finals still within reach heading into their final fixture at Poole.

Oxford made a fast start to the meeting, taking control early with back-to-back 5-1 heat advantages in Heats 2 and 3. Dayle Wood and Daryl Ritchings combined for the first maximum, before Anders Rowe and Mitch McDiarmid extended the lead in the following race.

Both heats saw incidents, with Daniel Klima falling in Heat 2 before the restart saw Oxford repeat the 5-1, while Anze Grmek led briefly in Heat 3 before being overtaken and later falling, with the race awarded.

The home side continued to build momentum through the middle stages, with further heat advantages coming from Luke Killeen and Sam Masters, including a notable Heat 8 where Killeen made an impressive move to pass both Plymouth riders.

By the interval, Oxford had established a commanding 41-19 lead, putting themselves in a strong position to take the win.

Plymouth responded in the latter stages with a pair of 5-1s, including a strong ride from Scott Nicholls in Heat 13, helping the visitors secure the aggregate point across the two meetings.

Oxford, however, maintained control of the match result, finishing with a series of solid races to close out the victory.

Mitch McDiarmid impressed for the Cheetahs, notably producing two last-to-first rides during the meeting, while Sam Masters led the scoring for the home side with 10+2.

For Plymouth, Danny King top scored with 12+1, supported by contributions from Ben Barker and Scott Nicholls.

Oxford Cheetahs 55 Plymouth Gladiators 45

Feature Image courtesy of British Speedway – Steve Edmunds

The post Oxford Cheetahs defeat Plymouth Gladiators in BSN Series appeared first on Speedway Hub UK.

The two-time World Longtrack Champion started the season with an encouraging 13-point tally for the Cheetahs in a home challenge match against Coventry. But following a 4+1 return at Plymouth, when he was feeling under the weather with a virus, things started to go wrong for Riss when he travelled to Poland the following day.

Riss posted online: “Unfortunately health issues with my eyes returned last weekend and I haven’t been able to race since. I will have to take another forced break from racing until my vision goes back to normal.

“I am very sorry to my clubs and fans for this situation. I was confident that these issues were behind me and did not expect to be back in this position.

“Considering I had been doing everything that I was told by doctors, this is a big shock to me and quite a defeating feeling. I’m already seeking more professional help to try and get more closure on the issue and hopefully find a long-term solution.

“At this moment in time I am not able to put an estimate on how long I will have to take a break from racing for.”

The Oxford management have backed Riss.

Team manager Peter Schroeck says: “The most important thing is that we give Erik full support.

“I’ve spoken to him and I know how gutted he is. His health and recovery come first – and we know he’s doing everything possible to get back to full fitness.

“Things could change very quickly, or it might take longer, so we need to be patient.”

Cheetahs have booked Nick Morris as a guest for Riss for the BSN Series clash against Plymouth Gladiators at the BetGoodwin Oxford Stadium on Wednesday evening (April 22) at 7.30pm. Cheetahs scored a hugely encouraging 51-39 win over arch-rivals Poole Pirates last week and are seeking another positive result.

Tickets are on sale on the Oxford Speedway website at: https://oxfordspeedway.club/tickets/

Any tickets for the original planned staging on April 8 have been transferred to this new date. If anyone would like a refund rather than their ticket transferred to Wednesday, they need to contact Ticket Source using the details in the email they received informing them of the postponement. Ticket Source will then issue the refund.

There are two home meetings at the BetGoodwin Oxford Stadium this week, since the Real Mini Company Oxford Chargers, the defending WSRA National League champions, make their opening appearance of the season on Sunday (April 26) at 3pm. Tickets for this meeting are also on sale on the club website.

Words and Images by Oxford Speedway

The post Erik Riss sidelined due to Health Issues! appeared first on Speedway Hub UK.

Grmek will be arriving in the UK shortly, to take the Team place that has become available following the very unfortunate injury suffered by Danish rider Tobias Thomsen in the OBM Plymouth Gladiators first Fixture of the season on Good Friday. Tobias continues his slow recovery from very serious injuries and everyone at the Club, and the wider British Speedway fraternity will wish him well in his long term recovery, and The Gladiators will continue to update supporters of his progress back to full health and fitness.

Club Owner and Director Maexplained a little more about the new signing and the importance of replacing Tobias at the first and most respectful opportunity.

“Everyone remains focused on supporting Tobias and his family during what will be a slow but hopefully steady recovery and we look forward to the day when we can welcome Tobias and his family back to Plymouth to meet the OBM Gladiators supporters once again.

In the meantime, we will shortly be commencing our League and Cup programme and it is important that we found a suitable replacement for Tobias for the remainder of the season.

Anze is a 21 year old who is very highly regarded in both Slovenia and European Speedway circles. He has gained significant experience across Europe, competing in the Polish Leagues and at home in Slovenia and has been involved in the SGP2 Series and been very competitive against riders based in the UK and further afield, and shown more than enough to suggest that once he becomes acclimatised, he can better his initial starting Match Average of 4 points.

He has represented Slovenia at Team and Individual levels and at 21 years of age is very keen to come to the UK to further his experience and to improve himself as a rider. He comes to us very highly recommended by some significant observers, including my good friend and former Trelawny Tigers star Matej Zagar.

Once all of formalities have been completed, we look forward to Anze making his OBM Gladiators debut next week, and he is in the process of traveling over to the UK in the next few days in order to get settled in his Cornish base and the get in some practise laps at the Coliseum and other UK Tracks.

The post Plymouth Gladiators sign Slovenian star Anze Grmek appeared first on Speedway Hub UK.

A statement from Oxford promoter Jamie Courtney reads: “You will be aware that over the weekend there have been a series of meetings following the termination of the deal between SIS and Oxford Greyhounds to stream racing from the BetGoodwin Stadium.

“Inevitably that decision and subsequent ongoing negotiations impact on Oxford Speedway and I can confirm that Wednesday’s BSN Series meeting between the Cheetahs and Plymouth will not go ahead.

“We will, however, travel to the Coliseum on Saturday night to face Plymouth Gladiators, with the visit of Poole next Wednesday opening the official home season at the BetGoodwin Stadium.

“Plymouth – and I must thank Mark Phillips for his understanding and co-operation on this – will now visit Cowley on April 22 to compete the BSN Southern Section fixtures – a date Berwick were due to travel south to fulfil a Championship fixture on.

“The Berwick fixture will be re-arranged for later in the season.

“With complex and involved negotiations between a number of stakeholders, including ourselves, on-going and the added inconvenience of a double Bank Holiday, I did not feel it was possible to run Wednesday’s meeting.

“I firmly believe that it is short-term inconvenience which will have long-term and far-reaching benefits for Oxford Speedway and Oxford Stadium.

“British Speedway Promoters Ltd and the Speedway Control Bureau have been kept updated regarding the situation, as has Oxford Greyhounds.

“I know there has been much online speculation and a lot of misinformation posted ‘as fact’. We will keep our loyal supporters and sponsors updated via the club’s official channels.”

Words and Images by Oxford Speedway

The post Oxford postpone next Home fixture and Release statement appeared first on Speedway Hub UK.

“I want to confirm that the SD Timmo Car Sales Oxford Cheetahs will be here next Wednesday evening to start our BSN Series campaign against the Plymouth Gladiators”

The news that SIS tv would cease streaming of Oxford Greyhounds was released on Thursday morning and has since been the source of much online speculation surrounding the future of the BetGoodwin Stadium. Oxford Greyhounds are promoted by Kevin Boothby, who also holds the lease to the stadium from Galliard Homes. He is working hard to see what alternatives can be arranged. The decision by SIS is a financial one for themselves, as opposed to any issue with Oxford and, in their own words, “a streamlining and rationalisation of greyhound content” and is not likely to be their only change in coming months.

“SIS has faced extreme losses over the last two years, forcing them to reduce their UK fixtures. Sadly, Oxford and Suffolk Downs are first affected” Boothby said

“However, we are in talks with Premier Greyhound Racing to explore a potential contract. Though they are fully committed with existing tracks and schedules, we’ll know more by Tuesday next week” he concluded.

Whilst everyone appreciates that the stadium needs both speedway and greyhounds to be financially viable in the long term, Courtney encourages speedway fans to remain positive.

“Our opening fixture last night was a great success, and everyone left on a real high

“We have the potential for a great season ahead of us and I will work closely with Kevin and do what is necessary to ensure the future viability of both Speedway and Oxford Stadium” Courtney concluded.

Feature Image courtesy of Liam Cockwell

The post Oxford reassure fans with Statement regarding Greyhoud issues at their statement! appeared first on Speedway Hub UK.

Photographer Brett Thurlow has provided us with the pictures for this article and also gives us his predictions for the Championship campaign ahead!

Berwick Bandits

Berwick look strong on paper, especially at the top end, where their heat leader trio could be one of the most potent in the league.

Peter Kildemand brings both points and entertainment home and away, while Nick Morris offers consistency as a proven heat leader. Victor Palovaara impressed last season and, if he can deliver that level more regularly, completes a very strong top three.

The second strings add further strength. Jye Etheridge returns looking to push towards heat leader status, while Lasse Fredriksen is someone who has question marks by his name — but if he finds form, Berwick’s top five could be among the best in the league.

At reserve, Jack Smith brings experience and stability, and starting the season with a familiar club could suit him well. Alongside him, Australian newcomer Reid Battye arrives with a strong reputation from back home and will benefit from having an experienced side around him.

If Battye settles quickly and contributes consistently, Berwick could prove very difficult to beat. With a powerful top three and solid backing throughout the team, the Bandits have the ingredients to be genuine contenders if everything clicks

Key Rider: Reid Battye – If the Aussie can live up to expectations and the Bandits have a high-scoring reserve duo, they are going to be tough to beat

Prediction:

Paul: 3rd in the table, losing out in the Semi Finals of the Play-offs
Brett: 6th

Their line-up

Nick Morris
Peter Kildemand
Victor Palovaara
Jack Smith
Jye Etheridge
Lasse Fredriksen
Reid Battye

Edinburgh Monarchs

Edinburgh have made a statement with the signing of Dan Thompson, who switches from rivals Glasgow and now steps into a genuine number one role. His sharpness from the tapes should suit Armadale, and he looks ready to lead the side.

Justin Sedgmen remains a key figure and a rider closely associated with the Monarchs’ success. On his day he is a top performer, but greater consistency — particularly away from home — will be important if Edinburgh are to challenge.

Paco Castagna adds both points and presence, while Kye Thomson provides strong support and could push into the top three if his form continues to develop.

Jonatan Grahn offers reliability in the second string role, although Edinburgh may need a little more depth overall. The reserve pairing of Jordy Loftus and Mitchell Cluff has potential, but both are still relatively inexperienced at this level and could be tested over the course of the season.

If their top end delivers consistently, Edinburgh have the capability to compete — but strength in depth could prove the deciding factor.

Key Rider: Jordy Loftus and Mitchell Cluff. The Monarchs really need one of their reserves to step up to the plate.

Prediction:

Paul: 9th
Brett: 9th

Their line-up

Justin Sedgmen
Dan Thompson
Jordy Loftus
Paco Castagna
Kye Thomsen
Mitchell Cluff
Jonatan Grahn

Glasgow Tigers

Glasgow look set to be one of the most entertaining sides in 2026, with Chris Harris, Kyle Howarth and Leon Flint all returning to form a strong, hard-racing heat leader trio.

At reserve, Freddy Hodder remains with the club after a solid 2025 and will be expected to build on that form. Glasgow may need him to hit the ground running, particularly with two newcomers to British Speedway in Kevin Juhl Pedersen and Mario Häusl, who could take time to adapt.

Sam Hagon adds further strength and has an excellent record at Ashfield, where he has claimed two British Under-21 titles. That familiarity with the circuit could prove a major asset, especially in the early part of the season.

If the new signings settle quickly, Glasgow have the makings of a very competitive side — but their early-season form may hinge on how quickly those riders find their feet.

Key Rider: Again, two, for Glasgow. To be successful, they need one or both of their new riders, Kevin Juhl Pederson and Mario Hausl, to have a successful debut season.

Prediction:

Paul: 4th, losing in the playoff semi-finals
Brett: 1st – 3rd in the Play offs

Their line-up

Chris Harris
Kyle Howarth
Leon Flint
Freddy Hodder
Kevin Juhl Pedersen
Mario Hausl
Sam Hagon

Oxford Cheetahs

Sam Masters once again leads Oxford in 2026 and remains one of the standout number ones in the league. He is backed up by Erik Riss and Anders Rowe, giving the Cheetahs a solid-looking top three.

Riss will be looking to put his health issues behind him, and if Oxford are to challenge this season, both he and Rowe will need to consistently deliver around the eight-point mark. Behind them, there are question marks over depth.

Mitch McDiarmid showed flashes of his potential last year and is capable of big performances, but may still need time before becoming a regular heat leader. Luke Killeen faces an important season and will need to take the next step, with Oxford relying on improvement from their second string pairing.

At reserve, Daryll Ritchings and Dayle Wood complete the line-up, but compared to some rivals, this area could prove a weakness. Ritchings impressed on his return last season, while Wood will be aiming to bounce back after a tough year.

Oxford’s strength lies in its top end, but its chances this season could depend on whether the rest of the team can provide consistent support.

Key Rider: Luke Kileen. A big year for the Young Aussie in the main body of the Team. With weaker reserves, they need him to make a giant leap.

Prediction:

Paul: 7th
Brett: 5th

Line Up

Sam Masters
Anders Rowe
Eric Riss
Daryll Ritchings
Dayle Wood
Mitch McDiarmid
Luke Kileen

Plymouth Gladiators

Plymouth have gone big for 2026 with the signings of former British Champions Scott Nicholls and Danny King. Both bring huge experience and, if they hit form, could be very difficult to beat around the Coliseum.

Ben Barker remains a key figure and a rider who thrives at Plymouth. If the Gladiators are in contention for the play-offs, you can expect him to be right at the centre of it.

Joe Thompson continues to progress and looks capable of a breakthrough season. If he finds that next level in 2026, he could become a major asset to the side.

Daniel Klima is something of an unknown after limited appearances last year, but he has a strong pedigree on the continent and, if he adapts to the tighter UK circuits, could develop into a real contributor as the season goes on.

Tobias Thomsen arrives from Poole and should offer solid, consistent scoring in the second-string role, even if major gains are not expected.

At reserve, Tom Spencer gets another opportunity and will be looking to build his average. If he can consistently contribute around the three-point mark, he will have done his job.

Plymouth’s strength lies in their experience at the top end, and if the supporting cast can step up, they have the potential to be super competitive — particularly on home shale.

Key Rider: Daniel Klima. If he gets dialled into the British tracks and gets a 6-point-plus average, the Gladiators could be in for a big year.

Prediction

Paul: 2nd in the league and 2nd in the Playoffs
Brett: 3rd in the league and runners-up in the playoffs

Line up

Scott Nicholls
Danny King
Tobias Thomsen
Joe Thompson
Ben Barker
Daniel Klima
Tom Spencer

Poole Pirates

Reigning champions Poole Pirates once again look exceptionally strong, with another well-built 1–7 that makes them clear contenders in 2026.

Richard Lawson leads the side and remains one of the most reliable number ones in the league, delivering both home and away. Alongside him, Zach Cook continues to develop and could well push for that top spot as the season progresses.

Lewi Kerr adds further experience, and another year at Wimborne Road could see him step up again. Dan Gilkes returns after an injury-hit campaign, but with strength around him, he should be able to build back into form as the season unfolds.

Fraser Bowes could prove to be one of the signings of the season. His average remains low after his debut year, but he showed clear potential and, if that continues, could develop into a heat leader as the campaign progresses.

At reserve, Poole looks particularly strong. Will Cairns impressed last year and, with more experience behind him, could take another step forward. Alongside him, Cooper Rushen arrives as one of the most exciting young prospects in the sport, having produced outstanding performances in the NDL.

With strength throughout the team and serious depth at reserve, Poole once again has all the ingredients to be a major force in 2026.

Key Rider: Fraser Bowes.  His potential is huge, and 2 points plus on his average could easily be achievable.

Predictions

Paul: Last in the League and 1st in the Playoffs
Brett: 2nd in the League and 1st in the Playoffs

Line Up

Richard Lawson
Will Cairns
Fraser Bowes
Dan Gilkes
Lewi Kerr
Cooper Rushen
Zach Cook

Redcar Bears

After ending 2025 with BSN Series success, expectations are high for Redcar Bears heading into the new season. However, an early blow came with injury to Charles Wright, forcing the club into a change at the top of the order.

Experienced Dane Nicolai Klindt comes in to fill that role and will need to deliver strongly if the Bears are to be challengers. If he can match expectations, Redcar still have the foundations of a competitive side.

Jake Allen joins from Scunthorpe and will be aiming to improve on last season’s average, while Jason Edwards continues his steady progression and now looks ready to push towards a higher scoring role.

Jordan Jenkins returns from injury and may need time to regain full sharpness, while Jake Mulford is now firmly established in the main body of the team and will be targeting further progression.

At reserve, Jody Scott and Ace Pijper both showed strong development last season and will be expected to continue that upward trend.

Redcar have a settled core and plenty of potential throughout the team, but their chances of challenging for the play-offs may depend on how quickly their new-look top end settles and whether their improving riders can take another step forward.

Key Rider: Jody Scott.  The Bears need Jody to continue his upward trajectory for them to succeed in 2026

Prediction

Paul: 8th
Brett: 8th

Line Up

Nicolai Klindt  (replacing the injured Charles Wright)
Jake Allen
Jordan Jenkins
Jason Edwards
Jake Mulford
Ace Pijper
Jody Scott

Scunthorpe Scorpions

After a difficult 2025, Scunthorpe Scorpions have made significant changes to avoid a repeat this season.

The headline signing is Josh Pickering, who brings genuine top-end quality and could well challenge for the Championship’s highest averages. Having a strong number one immediately gives the Scorpions a much firmer foundation.

The question is who will consistently support him. Luke Harrison showed real progression last season and could be ready to step into a more prominent role if that improvement continues.

Both Connor Mountain and Michael Palm Toft come into 2026 looking to bounce back after challenging campaigns, while Simon Lambert starts on a reduced average and could prove a valuable asset if he rediscovers his previous form.

At reserve, Nathan Ablitt returns with a point to prove after missing out last season, and Ryan Ingram has been making strong progress in the NDL and could chip in with useful scores.

Scunthorpe’s season may hinge on how well their supporting cast backs up Pickering, but if riders like Palm Toft and Lambert return to form, they could quickly move back into play-off contention.

Predictions:

Paul: 6th
Brett: 7th

Line up

Josh Pickering
Ryan Ingram
Luke Harrison
Connor Mountain
Michael Palm Toft
Nathan Ablitt
Simon Lambert

Workington Comets

After a disrupted 2025 season due to off-track issues, Workington Comets head into their third Championship campaign looking for greater stability and a stronger push up the table.

Troy Batchelor continues as a reliable number one, while Craig Cook returns to his home club. On his day, Cook remains one of the most exciting riders in the league, and if he commits to a full season, Workington could be a serious threat.

Jonas Jeppesen impressed during his spells last year and, if he carries that form into 2026, completes a strong-looking top three. Behind them, Tate Zischke has clear potential and, if he can rediscover his pre-injury speed, could be a major contributor.

Niklas Holm Jakobsen is new to the league and will be aiming to build steadily, while Vinnie Foord looks capable of improving on last season and adding valuable points to the side.

At reserve, Jamie Etherington begins his debut Championship season and will be looking to gain experience while contributing where possible.

If Workington can find consistency and get the best out of their top end, they have the potential to be competitive — but much may depend on how their key riders perform over the full campaign.

Key Rider: Craig Cook – The Comets’ season could all depend on which Craig Cook turns up.

Prediction

Paul: 5th
Brett: 4th in the League and Playoffs

Line up

Jonas Jeppesen
Tate Zischke
Vinnie Foord
Troy Batchelor
Craig Cook
Niklas Holm Jakobsen
Jamie Etherington

The post 2026 Cab Direct Championship – Preview & Predictions appeared first on Speedway Hub UK.

Feature Image courtesy of Ian Rispin

The home side established control early in the meeting, racing into a 22-8 advantage after five heats. The pairing of Connor Mountain and Luke Harrison played a key role in that start, combining for two maximum 5-1 results to put the Scorpions firmly on the front foot.

Redcar worked their way back into contention as the meeting progressed, reducing the deficit and setting up a tense conclusion. The result was ultimately decided in Heat 14, when the Bears required a maximum to force a last-heat decider.

In a crucial moment, Mountain moved past Jason Edwards to secure second place, but the race ended in dramatic fashion on the final bend when contact between the two riders resulted in Mountain crashing heavily into the fence. He was able to walk away from the incident, and Edwards was excluded, with the race result standing as a 3-3—enough to confirm victory for the hosts.

There was plenty of entertainment throughout the afternoon, with Scunthorpe’s new number one Josh Pickering delivering a standout performance. The Australian was in impressive form, producing a number of strong rides including a remarkable charge from the back to win Heat 10. He ended the meeting as top scorer with 13+1, winning four races and showing his quality at key moments.

Nathan Ablitt also impressed for the Scorpions on his return to Championship racing, contributing 7+1. His afternoon included a Heat 1 maximum alongside Pickering after Redcar’s Kyle Howarth fell while contesting the lead.

All seven Scunthorpe riders contributed to the win, including 16-year-old debutant Ryan Ingram, who scored 2+1 despite not being at full health.

Redcar’s scoring was evenly spread across the team, with Ace Pijper and Jason Edwards leading the way on 8 points apiece, both showing strong form throughout the meeting. Kyle Howarth and Jake Allen were close behind with 7+1 each, providing solid backing in the middle of the order, while Jake Mulford added 4. Further contributions came from Jordan Jenkins and Jody Scott, who both recorded 3+1, ensuring all riders chipped in on a day where the Bears battled hard but were unable to overturn Scunthorpe’s early advantage.

Speaking after the meeting, Ablitt said via the Scunthorpe Speedway website:

“I felt really good today. It was the first time I’ve ridden out of reserve at this level, so I was really happy to score paid eight.

“I enjoyed racing at No 2. I had Josh (Pickering) with me in three of my races and we had some good races against the opposition. Riding with him – following him and learning off him – is only going to help me out. And the crowd love Josh, because he is box office.

“It was a long year last year and I had an injury which ruled me out for much of last season. I broke my scaphoid last June and it just wouldn’t heal. I ended up having surgery on it in December. This afternoon was my first meeting in nine months and it makes the struggles worthwhile.

“I had a positive meeting today and I just want to keep building. I’m happy my points contributed to a victory for the team and it gives us something to work for on Friday at Redcar.”

The two sides will meet again later this week, with the return fixture scheduled for Friday at Redcar’s ECCO Arena, where the Bears will look to respond on home shale.

Results

The post Scunthorpe open season with win over Redcar in BSN Series appeared first on Speedway Hub UK.

With Wright facing a spell on the sidelines, the Bears have opted for proven Championship quality, with Klindt stepping in on a temporary basis as they look to maintain momentum in the early stages of the season.

Promoter Leanne Swales acknowledged the challenge of filling the void left by their captain but is confident the club have secured the best possible option available, saying on the Redcar website:

“Replacing someone like Charles is almost impossible, and the list of options really isn’t very long. However, we believe we’ve secured the very best rider available in Nicolai.

“He brings vast experience and a proven track record at Championship level, and we’re really looking forward to working with him during Charles’ recovery.

“This is a temporary move, and Charles will be back leading from the front as soon as he’s ready. But we were keen to avoid falling into the trap of previous seasons where we had to rely heavily on guests.”

Klindt, 37, arrives with a wealth of experience, including two Danish Under-21 titles. He was a key figure for Plymouth in 2025 and also featured in the Premiership with King’s Lynn. Joining the Bears on an 8.36 average, he offers both consistency and top-flight know-how.

The Dane is set to make his Redcar debut this Friday at the ECCO Arena as the Bears face Scunthorpe in a crucial BSN Series encounter.

Redcar head into the fixture needing to overturn a 10-point deficit if they are to secure the bonus point, as they continue their defence of the BSN title.

Feature Image courtesy of Redcar Speedway

The post Redcar Bears snap up Danish star Nicolai Klindt appeared first on Speedway Hub UK.