Polish hero Bartosz Zmarzlik admitted “winning together always has a unique value” as he bids to lead his country to FIM Speedway World Cup glory at Warsaw’s PGE Narodowy on August 29.
The sport’s original team event – staged every three years – returns for 2026, with Poland seeded through to the Final as host nation, where they take on FIM Speedway of Nations world champions Australia and the winners of Semi-Finals 1 and 2.
Poland will be determined to retain the Ove Fundin Trophy they lifted in dramatic style at Wroclaw’s Olympic Stadium in 2023.
In nine FIM Speedway GP of Poland – Warsaw events staged at PGE Narodowy, there has never been a Polish winner.
With an expectant circa 50,000-strong crowd at trackside, Zmarzlik and his teammates will hope to change that this summer. And the 30-year-old admits it would be special to top the podium as part of the national side.
He said: “Team racing is different. Responsibility is shared, and you support each other throughout the event. That doesn’t mean there’s less pressure, but it feels more collective. Winning together always has a unique value.
“Racing for Poland at such an event, especially in Warsaw, would be something very special. Representing your country in front of home fans is always an incredible experience.”
Australia has been tipped for success in Warsaw, given that Max Fricke, Jason Doyle and Jack Holder are all former Speedway GP winners at PGE Narodowy, while Brady Kurtz took second spot in 2025.
Asked if this could reduce the pressure on the hosts, Zmarzlik replied: “When others are seen as favourites, it can reduce some pressure, but at the end of the day, Poland always has high expectations at home. We will focus on our performance, not on predictions.”
While the Warsaw track is far tighter and more technical than a traditional Polish oval, the noise generated by a capacity Polish crowd could give the hosts a real advantage.
“They will be extremely important,” Zmarzlik said. “The support of Polish fans gives you extra energy, especially in difficult moments. Their passion and atmosphere can make a real difference.”
The Poles are led into the 2026 PZM FIM SWC Final by new national boss Stanislaw Chomski – a coach Zmarzlik is very familiar with after they worked together at his boyhood club Stal Gorzow.
It’s an appointment Zmarzlik backs. He said: “I know Stanislaw very well and I think he’s a great choice. He has huge experience, strong leadership skills and understands riders very well. I’m confident he will bring stability and a clear vision to the national team.”