PETERBOROUGH insist they will see out this season but that could be it for the Panthers!
In a lengthy statement following the revelation that three-times World no. 1 Nicki Pedersen has quit, they warn that unless there are dramatic changes of circumstance this will be the club’s final season.
The statement, posted on the club website, promises their loyal but worried fans: “There has been much speculation about the future of the Panthers, and it is important to state from the outset, that we are 100% committed to the 2023 season.
“Over the winter there was an on/off scenario whereby the club may have changed hands. However, given the uncertainty over the longevity of Peterborough Speedway, it was understandable that a sale did not take place.
“That said everybody involved in that process is still involved with the club and wants to take it forward in the best way possible. Keith Chapman remains as the owner of the club.”
Talks between prospective new owner Michael Tomalin broke down earlier this year but the director of sponsors City Car Auctions was appointed as Chief Executive and asked to be co-promoter along with Carl Johnson.
Peterborough has been running, non-stop, at the East of England Showground, since 1970, and celebrated its Golden Jubilee in 1921, a season late because of Covid.
The club statement went on: “In terms of the future, as things stand at present, very sadly this will be our last year. We have a contract with the Showground until the end of October, and at this stage it is highly unlikely that this will be renewed.
“We have spoken to several people regarding the potential for a new site, but the club would need significant help with that as it would essentially involve building a new stadium.
“Our intention is to carry on fighting for as long as possible to keep Peterborough Speedway in Peterborough, but as it stands now, the speedway will cease in October.”
“We can fully understand the fans’ disappointment both with this news and the Nicki scenario, but we can only stress that the club needs you more than ever at this moment. We are not giving up, so please do not give up on us. As a management team, we feel it is best to be completely open and honest with everyone and explain the situation, however difficult things are, and we will continue to do this over the coming weeks.”
Words by Holeshot Media.
Images by Jeff Davies.