BRITISH SPEEDWAY: IPSWICH IN SAFE HANDS

Feature photo: Chris Louis with Martin Vaculik 

(SPEEDWAY 1)

IN SAFE HANDS

IPSWICH promoter Chris Louis has vowed to leave the club “in safe hands” after announcing his decision to step down ahead of the 2026 season.

Louis and team manager Ritchie Hawkins led the Witches to title success in the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership this year, Chris having maintained the family dynasty at Foxhall as he took over ownership from his late father John after previously captaining the side on-track.

He said: “The Ipswich Witches have been a part of my entire life, from running around the trees on the terraces with a Coke can on my left foot, to being a proud member of the side including winning the title in ‘98, through to promoting the side and another title in 2025. 

“Through the great times and the tough times, the riders, fans, sponsors, staff and my wife Julie have been right behind me. 

“I will be working tirelessly over the coming months to ensure that I leave the club in safe hands.  Dad and I have put in 77 years between us, and it has been a privilege to continue the Tiger’s legacy. I hope, perhaps through the Tiger’s Academy I can continue in the sport in the future.

“I want to thank every rider that has represented the Witches in my time, either riding with, or for me. I have to mention Danny (King) and Ritchie, who have gone above and beyond and supported me throughout.

“Ritchie will also be stepping aside but he has asked me to thank you all for your support and he will be sending his own message soon.” 

(SPEEDWAY 2)

GLASGOW will stage an FIM Grand Prix Qualifier next season on Saturday May 30.

The route to the 2027 Grand Prix series will be determined by the outcome of the qualification process next year, with the meetings at Ashfield, Zarnovica in Slovenia on the same day, and Abensberg, Germany (May 25) providing the riders for the GP Challenge in Italy at Terenzano on July 25.

It is the latest in a line of major FIM events to be hosted by the Tigers, including equivalent GP Qualifiers in 2019 and 2021, and the Challenge itself in 2022, and there will be Great Britain representation in the meeting.

(SPEEDWAY 3)

WORKINGTON have pulled off the signing of Danish star Jonas Jeppesen for the 2026 season.

Jeppesen is set to come in as the Comets’ No.1 on a starting average of 8.20 after a successful stint with their Cab Direct Championship rivals Berwick this summer.

Amongst the 27-year-old’s impressive displays was a paid maximum from four rides when the Bandits secured an away win in the final match of the campaign at the GT Tyres Arena.

Jeppesen, a former World Under-21 Finalist, also brings with him a full season of top-flight experience as he rode for Birmingham in the Premiership.