Tai Woffinden set to end international exile

Woffinden sat out last year’s World Cup campaign but has moved to end his exile after being overwhelmed with the level of support he received when meeting fans at stage shows in Halifax and Berwick in February, as well as holding talks with officials.

“When I did three shows in Berwick and Halifax the fans were asked to put their hands up if they wanted to see me ride for GB again,” he said.

“And when I saw every single person put their hand up I couldn’t believe it, it was really cool to see and it got me thinking.

“I was genuinely taken by surprise by the reaction, it was really nice to see that I still have a lot of support and I want to give GB fans something to smile about and try and inspire us to some success.

“I don’t want my British fans to think I have ever forgotten about them, but I needed to take some time out and having the year out has obviously worked as changes are being made, the type of things I have been pushing for over the last 5 years.

“I have explained my reasons for not riding for GB many times and I’m not going to go over old ground again now. It’s time to look ahead to the future.

“I’m excited by the changes to the GB set-up, I’ve had some in-depth conversations with Rob Painter and the management team who have taken over, and we share a lot of the same ideas.

“I’m now happy to say I am available for selection for GB in the Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations. If selected, I will give it my all and hopefully win something for our country.

“A combination of Rob’s attitude and ideas and the reaction from fans, both at the shows and on social media, have made me realise how much it would mean to people. I’m ready.”

Great Britain open their campaign in Manchester at Belle Vue’s National Speedway Stadium on Tuesday June 5 when they face Sweden, Czech Republic, France, Italy, Australia and Finland.

Tickets are available from speedwayofnations.com or tickets.com - there is also the telephone option on 01608 692282.