The Ipswich Witches will be ready to race in April, promoter Chris Louis has vowed.
The speedway world was rocked in November when, after finally winning the Premiership title for the first time since 1998 last season, Louis announced that he'd be selling the club.
Stars including Emil Sayfutdinov and Jason Doyle, plus team manager Ritchie Hawkins, have since departed, and it wasn't clear if the Witches would ride at all in 2026.
But, offering an update on the historic club, Louis said the sale is set to be completed - to a yet-to-be-revealed buyer - in the next couple of weeks.
And the Witches will be ready to start the defence of the title in April, with Louis revealing the 2026 team is nearly complete.
In a statement, he revealed: "First of all, please let me apologise that this update is coming a day later than promised.
"I am now in a position to add a little more detail to the club’s position and preparation for the new season.
"I am sure you can appreciate it has been a difficult time for fans of all clubs as we wait for the confirmed makeup of the 2026 Premiership and its fixtures.
"The club sale had been stalled due to the renewal of the stadium lease with our landlords Spedeworth taking longer than expected but which has now been signed.
"This means that the sale of the club can now be completed, and this is expected to happen over the next couple of weeks.
"However, the team behind the takeover have been working nonstop to ensure that the Witches will be ready to race in early April.
"I have worked closely alongside them to introduce them to the club’s sponsors, officials and staff to ensure a seamless transition.
"They are nearing completion of the 2026 team and have five confirmed team members with the final two nearing completion.
"I can appreciate how frustrating it is for everyone but just wanted you all to know that preparations behind the scenes are well advanced and on course to provide yet more thrilling entertainment in the season ahead. Thank you for your patience."
British Speedway have confirmed that the Witches will defend their title in 2026, competing against Belle Vue, Sheffield, Leicester and King’s Lynn in the Premiership. A sixth club will potentially also join the league.
The Witches' 'Rising star' rider has also been named as Jason Edwards.
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