False dawn

Perhaps he's just fed up racing north of the Arctic circle 😂

Back in the 70's I can, as a Bees supporter, remember having many heated arguments on the terraces with rival fans, especially Leicester folk. In later years it was Cradley and then Poole. But never did I or any of my family feel threatened and I took my kids into the standing areas from a few days old. There's nothing wrong with rivalry. I'm not sure I like the term tribalism but having some emotional attachment to your club is natural and good for the sport. I know we've talked it to death but the lack of a consistent team of riders from week to week let alone from year to year does not foster this sense of attachment.

He's still got an average over 8. And he's pure box office. He might not win as many races as in previous years but when he does the crowd go home talking about it. Any rider who brings fans through the turnstiles is worth considering, surely.

I think it was a replay.

At the risk of repeating myself, surely the starting marshal has a part to play here. He could not be completely oblivious to what was going on and could have brought it to the referee's attention. Yes, maybe the referee should be aware anyway. But all officials have a responsibility to ensure fair play.

At least BSN made it their business to find out what was going on and inform their viewers. It's a pity that the norm at most (all) clubs is to leave the paying public at the circuit completely in the dark. For the record, my understanding is that there is a rule that if a tyre becomes unsafe, a rider may replace it with a spare but only one that has a similar level of wear but that is still safe to use. Obviously, the "similar level of wear" bit is open to interpretation and can lead to accusations of cheating. Steady, last night, was obviously trying to make sure that one or more Leicester riders weren't getting an unfair advantage by switching tyres. From what I observed there was no great argument but there was obviously a lot on the line.

For me, Richard has always been a solid points scorer. Someone you can rely on to get reasonable or good scores, week in, week out. This year there seems to have been other things going on in his life and we know he's not one to shy away from an argument. All of which has lead to more inconsistent performances. But form is temporary & class is permanent. If he get's those other issues sorted and clear in his mind, he'd be on my team sheet, no question.

I know people don't think much about the playing and, dread the thought, singing the National Anthem anymore. But can you imagine Robert standing on top of the podium at a GP whilst the Polish National Anthem is played?

Nope. If the SEC winner has qualified some other way, the FIM take the place as a 4th wildcard. There is no automatic qualification to someone else.

Careful what you wish for

It's all balls. Crystal variety, of course 🤣

A big thank you to Matthew and R & R for the Ben Fund receiving a much needed contribution. Very generous. The Ben Fund benefits us all, not just the riders. P.S. Congratulations Matthew.

It's hard to think that GP date planners don't look at these obvious date clashes. But is that me being too common sensible again?

Congratulations Robert. You're World Champion and we're proud of you. In fact, it's brilliant. Another Brit winning the WC is outstanding. Doing it in Poland is astronomical. Ignore all the negative crap. The record book will show that Robert Lambert won the World Championship in 2026. No one can ever change that. You're a star mate and you're ours. Enjoy it.

I'm sure we all hope for, 14 riders, proper speedway.