Peter Karlsson’s legacy at Wolves Speedway was written in the stars

The Wolverhampton legend launched his farewell celebrations in front of a capacity crowd at the Cleveland Arms in the city with his big meeting at Monmore fast approaching on March 19.

He first raced for the club in 1990 – but only after missing out on a trial at Reading.

“I was lined up to ride at Reading but for whatever reason I didn’t make it over here for that,” he said. “I then had the call to come and ride at Wolverhampton which I did in 1990 and the rest, I suppose they say, is history! I’ve spent most of my time here, I used to live here before going back to Sweden and commuting, Wolverhampton has always been a big part of my life and always will be.”

And he’s revealed how he almost quit British racing when Wolverhampton released him because his average took them over the points limit. He’s also had spells with Peterborough, King’s Lynn and Belle Vue – but Wolverhampton has always been his home club, in his view.

“I had a call to say they couldn’t fit me in the team one winter and I took it quite bad, it was terrible,” he said. “I felt like I didn’t want to come over to ride for anyone else, but then I realised I had to get over it because I wanted to ride my bike and earn money. I went to other clubs and did my best for them, but it never felt the same – it wasn’t Wolverhampton and I was always keen to get back there.”

And he admitted he will be emotional when he hosts his farewell meeting after a glittering career with the club which ended by winning the league title in spectacular style last October.

“To see so many people at the Cleveland Arms was amazing, it was a great night,” said Karlsson.

“I know March 19 will be emotional. I’ve spent a lot of my time here, I know I’ve raced for other clubs but this is my home here in the UK. I used to live here all the time, so this will always have a special place in my heart.

“The fans are special and you only have to see all the people who came to see me at the Cleveland Arms to realise that. I want to thank everyone for coming along and thanks to the pub for having me for the evening.”

Wolverhampton will host their press and practice the night after his farewell meeting and open their Monmore season on March 27 when they face Poole in the Elite Shield which promises to be a tough battle between two great clubs.