Wolverhampton Wolves forced to change and put focus on starlets

New plans for the 2021 Premiership include a British youngster for each club, which means Parrys International Wolves are forced into a change.

But Van Straaten has also praised the scheme as he feels the time is right for more British riders to have the opportunity to race.

“I had seven riders committed to 2021 after the cncellation of last season,” said Van Straaten.

“Now someone will have to miss out and that’s going to be tough for me, but it’s something I will have to do.

“It’s the right time to encourage the British riders and to place more emphasis on them because of the Polish rule restricting riders in their leagues to where else they can ride, plus Brexit has made using Scandinavian and Australian riders that little bit more complex with visas.

“I’m encouraged by the decisions made and I’m looking forward to the spring and the summer when we will be able to have crowds back in venues. I’m sure about that.

“Right now the statistics for the pandemic are shocking, but as the weather improves and the vaccination process speeds up it will only get better.”

On the six-team Premiership, Van Straaten said: “It’s disappointing to lose Swindon but we look forward to welcoming them back next year.

“Six teams for a shorter season probably suits us all for this year, but I must add in a normal season starting in March I wouldn’t be running in a league that size. We can’t do a full season with only five other teams in the league, but for this year it’s fine.”

British Speedway Promoters Ltd chairman Rob Godfrey said: “Everyone is excited by the new project to work with the youth and to encourage them over a five-year plan. We want to see riders develop from youth level to league racing and ultimately to the national team.

“We have a host of talented young riders desperate to make a career out of the sport and we are going to work closely with them to present them opportunities at league level to supplement the excellent work of Neil Vatcher and academies coaching them.

“With the restrictions in Poland and how many leagues they allow riders to sign up to, we have made this move – but we believe it’s the right thing to do in any circumstances.

“British Speedway is coming back and I, for one, cannot wait for the warmer weather, brighter nights and sound of bikes warming up for the new season.”

A start date of Saturday, May 1, has been set for the 2021 season with the Premiership starting on Monday, May 3.