A final decision on whether speedway will return to the Isle of Wight in 2025 has been delayed until later this month as promoters continue to battle against rising costs and logistical challenges.
Supporters and volunteers gathered in the Premier Lounge last Friday (31st May) to hear from Warriors’ promoters Barry Bishop and Martin Widman, who provided an update on efforts to bring the sport back to the Isle of Wight this season.
An agreement has now been secured with ferry company Wightlink, which organisers say is a positive step forward. However, it has also highlighted the wider financial and operational pressures that continue to hinder planning, including restrictions on vehicle transport, increasing medical costs, and issues with rider availability.
Despite the uncertainty, fans made it clear that their preference remains for full team speedway, with a core group of 6 or 7 riders to follow throughout a meaningful season. However, organisers warned that simply returning to the National League model used before the pandemic is no longer viable.
Martin Widman, Promoter, has said:
“Looking back to National League days before Covid is not very useful as speedway at our current level has changed so much and in our view will require more radical change to improve things, but we can definitely do our bit on the island.
“Kent are currently operating with only 4 National Trophy home fixtures and several challenge matches, which isn’t something that would work here, so other methods have to be explored.”
One such option under consideration is a shift to Tuesday evening fixtures, which could alleviate rider shortages experienced last year. Historically, speedway was always held on a Tuesday. This would, however, depend on whether the volunteer team can accommodate a change in schedule. If viable, a reduced but high-quality programme of 6 or 7 fixtures could begin on the final Tuesday of July – a potential springboard into 2026, which marks the 30th anniversary of league speedway on the Isle of Wight.
To make this happen, promoters say more local advertising, sponsorship and increased attendance will be essential. They have asked supporters to suggest low-cost ways to reach wider audiences, particularly as the summer holiday season approaches. Fans are being encouraged to send suggestions and support via email to [email protected].
Meanwhile, organisers confirmed that the successful training programme ‘My First Skid’ will continue unaffected, regardless of the Warriors’ league plans.
A final decision is expected by Friday 13th June.
Sorry to read this. Financial pressure is everywhere you look. If it has not closed down already, then it is surely under threat.
With Wightlink at the centre, what could possibly go wrong? Wightlink is such a reliable source and inspiration to the Island.
The loss of Speedway on the Island, if it happens, will be a loss to the whole country. Speedway has been shut down track by track across the realm as it is one more thing that says who we are and that is British and thus ‘they’ want it gone.