Woffinden broke the news in a touching video on his social media accounts on Saturday, admitting that he needs surgery on the injuries he suffered in a crash at Polish club Ostrow on May 24. This follows the serious injuries he suffered in Krosno in March 2025, which sidelined him for the whole of last season.

The 11-time Speedway GP winner made his SGP debut in 2010, before returning for the 2013 series, storming to an astonishing Speedway GP World Championship win – despite being rated at odds of 500/1 with some bookmakers.

Woffinden followed up with gold medals in 2015 and 2018, becoming Britain’s first and only triple world champion, before he helped his country to 2021 FIM Speedway of Nations World Championship gold in Manchester – the nation’s first world team title since 1989.

Breaking the news, Woffinden said: “Hey, after more hospital scans yesterday, I have been told I need surgery following my latest crash in Poland. After a lot of thought, I have come to the decision that it’s time to retire from professional racing.

“To be honest, this isn’t an easy thing to say. For many years, this hasn’t just been what I do, it has been a huge part of who I am as a person.

“When I look back, I see five world titles, GP victories, national titles and team championships. But more than the trophies, I see the people, the friendships, the laughs, the tough days, the moments that tested me and the moments that remind me exactly why I fell in the love with the sport. What started as a dream became a life I could never have imagined, and I have been lucky enough to do something I truly loved, and I will never take that for granted.”

Woffinden paid tribute to his family, including wife Faye, who has been by his side throughout an incredible career at the highest level.

He said: “I have learned that nobody achieves anything on their own. Every step of this journey has been possible because of the incredible people around me.

“To my beautiful family, thank you. Thank you for every sacrifice you have made and for believing in me when I doubted myself, and for standing beside me in every high and every low.

“Faye, I could never truly put into words what you mean to me. I simply wouldn’t be here without you. To everyone I have worked with over the years – mechanics, teams, sponsors, managers and everyone behind the scenes – thank you. It has been an honour to share this journey with you. You have challenged, supported and inspired me and given me memories and friendships that I will carry with me forever.

“To everyone who followed my journey, who cheered me on or took the time to support me along the way, thank you. I will never forget the love and support you have shown.”

Woffinden’s burgeoning music career may keep him firmly in the spotlight, and there’s no doubt he will never be forgotten in a sport that his personality transcended.

Of his decision to call time on his career, the 35-year-old concluded: “I don’t think there is ever a perfect time, but eventually, you realise your body has given everything it has to give, and you can walk away feeling proud, grateful and at peace with that decision.

“It’s time for a new chapter, new adventures and more time with the people that matter the most. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for allowing me live this dream. It has been the privilege of my life, and I will be forever grateful. Here’s to the next chapter.”

Everyone involved with the FIM Speedway World Championships thanks Tai for his immense contribution to the sport and wishes him huge success in the next chapter of his life.

Woffy, Woffy, Woffy!

Words by FIM Speedway – Feature Image courtesy Taylor Lanning

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Woffinden had been presented with the opportunity to line up in this season’s championship, but the British star has decided the timing isn’t right as he continues his recovery and works back towards full form after the accident that disrupted his 2025 campaign.

The 34-year-old, who lifted the world title in 2013, 2015 and 2018, has spent the past year concentrating on getting back to race fitness and returning to regular competition. While he has already made a successful return to the track, he believes taking a measured approach in 2026 will give him the best chance of returning to the level required to challenge consistently at Grand Prix level.

Announcing the decision on his social media channels, Woffinden said:

“After a lot of thought and careful consideration, I’ve decided that I won’t be taking up the opportunity to ride in the Grand Prix this season.

“I’m incredibly grateful to have been given this opportunity, and I truly appreciate the belief and support that has been shown in me. It means a great deal, and this certainly wasn’t an easy decision.

“Over the past year, my main focus has been getting back to doing what I love most — racing my bike again. I’m really happy to be back on track and looking forward to the season ahead.

“For me, this year is about continuing to build momentum and working towards the goals I had set for myself before last year’s accident. Taking a step-by-step approach feels like the right decision for where I am right now.

“I know what it takes to compete at the highest level in the Grand Prix series, and at this stage my priority is continuing to build that momentum and returning to the level I know I can reach.

“I want to say a big thank you to my sponsors, my team, the organisers and all the fans who have supported me along the way. The support I’ve received has meant more than I can put into words.

“I’m excited for the challenge ahead and looking forward to getting back out there and racing.”

We wish Tai all the best and we hope we may see him back on the world stage in the future!

Feature Image courtesy of SGP

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