New Promoter, Four Poles, and First Ukrainian Rider: Previewing SGP 2026

The world of Speedway Grand Prix (SGP) is entering a new era with the appointment of Mayfield Sports Events Ltd as the new promoter, taking over from Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) after a four-year tenure. This transition, effective from the current season, marks a significant shift in the management and direction of the elite speedway series, with Mayfield Sports Events signing a contract with the FIM that extends to 2031.

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Sport and politics are two different things.

While Mayfield Sports Events assumes promotional duties, WBD will continue its role as the global broadcaster. Fans can still catch the action through various platforms, including Eurosport 3, Player, and HBO Max, ensuring continued accessibility for the sport's audience. Mayfield Sports Events brings a wealth of experience in motorsports, having worked with Formula 1 teams and organized SGP rounds in Cardiff, signaling a commitment to enhancing the fan experience and modernizing the SGP format.

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From the promoter's perspective, we will be interested in whether there is any possibility for Sayfutdinov and Laguta to get into the Grand Prix. I remind you that I have been in speedway for a short time and it was difficult to arrange this matter immediately.

One of the most notable developments for the 2026 season is the inclusion of the first-ever Ukrainian rider in the Grand Prix. This historic inclusion comes as Nazar Parnicki, a 19-year-old talent, automatically steps into the series as a replacement rider. This move is particularly significant given the current geopolitical climate and underscores the SGP's commitment to global representation.

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If there are such plans, they should contact me first.

The series will also feature four Polish riders, maintaining a strong Polish presence. However, the status of Russian riders with Polish passports, Artiom Laguta and Emil Sayfutdinov, remains uncertain. Mayfield founder Richard Coleman expressed a desire to see them compete, stating, "Sport and politics are two different things," but acknowledged that the decision rests primarily with the Polish federation. Sayfutdinov himself has expressed ambitions for a world championship but stressed the need for careful consideration and discussion with his family and team regarding his participation.

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I have ambitions to become world champion. (...) However, it's not as simple as forbidding today and allowing tomorrow. We need to sit down calmly. Not just them. I also need to sit down and discuss it with my family, with my team.