New deal sought by bosses
Speedway bosses have pledged a full season of televised top-flight action as they continue to seek an improved deal with broadcaster Sky.
Elite League promoters, concerned by the recession and the high percentage of their turnover that goes on riders' pay, are looking to renegotiate their current contract.
But although two days of discussions by the British Speedway Promoters Association failed to end in agreement, the show will go on and talks with Sky will continue.
Eastbourne chief Bob Dugard had put the cat among the pigeons before the BSPA talks, suggesting a halving of the EL programme should Sky not come round.
But that was a stance never likely to find general favour.
Wolves owner and BSPA vice-chairman Chris Van Straaten said: "We will be completing the league programme. We're in the middle of a contract, so Sky transmissions will be ongoing.
"But discussions are continuing for an enhanced contract."
The Monmore Green chief does understand why talks are sought to improve the league deal.
He said: "I understand the attitude of certain promoters. because I don't think any of us have experienced a recession like this before, and we don't know what's ahead.
"Speedway is a unique business. If I were running a butcher's shop or a garage and business suffered, I could lay people off.
"But once you do rider contracts, that's it. You're up and running and committed to doing those fixtures - and all the overheads that go with them."
