Nicholls back as Witches reveal 2026 rider line-up

Seven-time British champion Scott Nicholls has rejoined his hometown club Ipswich Witches for a potential career swansong as part of their rider line-up for the 2026 season.

Nicholls, who last rode for the Witches in 2010, Richard Lawson and Polish racer Tobiasz Musielak join captain Danny King, Tom Brennan and Jason Edwards from last year's title-winning team, along with Swedish reserve Philip Hellstrom-Bangs.

The Premiership champions have been taken over by Mayfield, parent company of the sport's World Championship, after former promoter Chris Louis decided to sell up.

"I haven't set anything in stone – I am not that type of person – but I have tentatively said this will be my last season, so it all fits right really," said Nicholls, 47.

"After a number of guest appearances over the years, going back as a fully-fledged Witch will be good. It was where my career really started and I had my testimonial. Who knows? Maybe I will have my farewell meeting there, which would be pretty cool."

Ipswich will have to manage without former world champion Jason Doyle and Emil Sayfutdinov, who both decided not to return to Foxhall this year.

Despite their absence, new co-promoter Richard Coleman said: "The side we have assembled for 2026 has plenty of strength in depth.

"We have riders who are vastly experienced as heat leaders in British speedway and a fantastic blend of youth and experience.

"Tom, Danny and Jason are all excited to be back after a fantastic season in 2025, and we are hugely grateful to them for hanging on for us, despite the uncertainty over the club's plans for 2026 at the time. Their loyalty has given us the chance to build a side with real strength in depth.

"We are also excited to welcome our newcomers. Richard is in the form of his career and Tobiasz is a three-time Premiership winner. We are delighted to give Philip his chance to impress Britain.

"It's also a joy to welcome Scott back to Foxhall for the first time in 16 years. If this does prove to be his final season, it's only fitting that he spends it at Ipswich. I'm sure he will be determined to go out on a high in his hometown."

At present only five teams, including Ipswich, are confirmed for 2026 but Premiership chief executive Phil Morris said recently they were "optimistic" a sixth club would be added before the start of the season.

The full fixture schedule has yet to be confirmed, but the season begins with the Nicolai Klindt testimonial meeting at King's Lynn on 15 March.