Luke Becker eyeing a Grand Prix spot
Wolverhampton speedway star Luke Becker has reached the qualifying rounds of the FIM Speedway Grand Prix after finishing second at the FIM North America Final.
The American international was pipped to top spot by former Coventry rider Billy Janniro, who won the meeting on 14 points.
Becker tied on 13 with USA and Wolverhampton team-mate Broc Nicol, before beating his rival in a run-off to seal a spot in the tournament’s qualifiers.
Becker scored six points at the semi-final in Lamothe Landerron, in France, last year to miss out on a spot at the GP Challenge in Gorican, in Croatia.
But the 20-year-old is expecting to contest the Glasgow round this year and is looking to earn a place in this year’s GP Challenge at Slovakian venue Zarnovica on July 11, where the top three riders will be guaranteed qualification for the Speedway Grand Prix 2021.
“Glasgow is a track that they’ve just re-done and it’s a lot different than it was – that might suit me I think,” he said. “It feels good and I’m really looking forward to it.
“I tried to do things differently from normal, it was more technical and not always wide open.
“I learnt a lot and tried a lot of different things and I’m happy with it. I haven’t been there yet, but I am looking forward to it.”
Becker starts his third season racing in Europe this year, after announcing his return to Wolverhampton in December, and admits life as a full-time speedway rider has been a great experience.
“I’m loving it,” he added. “It’s a blast, it’s a lot different than it is back home.
“To be able to say I am racing speedway for a living is awesome.
“Travelling around and racing is something that teaches you a lot mentally. You’re away from your home, family and friends and it’s a lot different.
“But I am loving it and really looking forward to this year.”
The popular Wolves rider signed on for his second straight season in the Black Country just before Christmas after making the jump to ride across Europe.
He is one of the two highest rated riders from across the pond, alongside Nicol, who also signed with Wolves. Nicol will take North America Final winner Janniro’s place in the qualifiers if the veteran chooses not to compete.
