British Premiership CEO Phil Morris says British Speedway Promoters Ltd is in advanced talks to add a sixth side to the competition for 2026.
The Premiership has endured a turbulent winter after Oxford Spires and Birmingham withdrew from the competition, with champions Ipswich and Sheffield put up for sale.
But there has been better news in recent weeks with confirmation that the league will continue, with Ipswich’s sale in its final stages and Sheffield’s owners set to continue at Owlerton.
While the Premiership has five confirmed starters as it stands, Morris has revealed the number could increase to six, with a new club set to join.
Morris told the British Speedway official website: “We fully understand that this has been the most frustrating of winters for supporters, as by late November there is usually certainty over plans for the following season.
“It’s regrettable that we haven’t been in a position to offer that clarity so far, but as we move into February, we felt it was important to offer an update to confirm that matters are progressing.
“We are still optimistic that there will be six teams in the Premiership, and we are in very serious negotiations to make it happen.
“Ipswich did provide an update recently to state that the sale has been agreed and it’s now going through the legal process before it can be formally announced. I do understand they are in talks with riders, and I’m sure they will put together a competitive side.
“I can’t say too much more about the potential sixth team at the moment as there are matters to be finalised there, but everyone is keen to see them join us.
“We are working on fixtures and will have them released as soon as possible once we have the clubs sorted, but I can say the current expectation is that the official schedule will begin in week commencing March 30.
“Should there be six teams, they will do two home and away each for the league, and the KO Cup will run with two groups of three teams, with the group winners meeting in the Final.
“We do thank everyone for their patience and assure them there is a great deal of work taking place to make this a strong Premiership season once again.”