BRITISH Speedway’s Premiership clubs have underlined their commitment to developing younger riders.
The Rising Star scheme that was successfully introduced last year will continue with each club tracking a rider ranked according to their experience in professional racing – and in an exciting new development a number eight rider will also be added to a squad to gain valuable experience.
In addition the Premiership Junior League will be staged as a second half after the main league meeting to give younger riders another opportunity to race and form part of the Premiership set up
The Premiership will again be shown live on Discovery (Eurosport) next season with a highlights package also shown on free to air Quest following the success of the first year of the TV contract.
Eurosport are keen to see younger British riders develop through the system which is fully supported by the Premiership who are keen to see the wider rider pool increase and also allow young talent to have an opportunity at the top level.
Last season talented teenager Jordan Palin won a league title medal with Peterborough with some impressive displays and Belle Vue’s Tom Brennan played his part in Great Britain’s stunning world title glory at the Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations.
A league spokesperson said: “We believe in developing younger riders and bringing them through with experience in the Premiership and we feel we saw examples of that last season.
“There is great value for the sport across the board in giving youngsters experience at this level and this will only enhance the sport in this country going forward and ultimately assist in increasing rider numbers.
“Whilst some 2nd half junior racing took place in 2021, with a full league season planned for 2022 we are excited about incorporating the Premiership Junior League competition into our race nights and showcasing the sport's future Rising Stars.
“The number eight rider in each team will also gain huge experience from being part of the club and it is envisaged that during the season they may get a chance to contribute and where possible go on to become the Rising Star rider at a club the following season.”
