THE British Speedway Promoters’ Association has played down fears that non-European Union riders could be forced to sit out the 2015 season.

Reports this morning suggested that non-EU riders would be refused entry into the UK and existing visas would be revoked ahead of the new campaign.

It is thought that British speedway’s doubling-up and guesting rules are not compliant with the rules of the UK Border Agency (UKBA).

BSPA bosses this week met with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) officials to discuss the situation.

Poole have three Australian-born riders in their 2015 line-up – Chris Holder, Dakota North and Davey Watt.

Holder could run into problems but Watt and North are unaffected, according to Pirates.

Queenslander Darcy Ward is another possible target, pending the result of his FIM Disciplinary Court appearance on January 30, but could also face issues getting into the UK.

A BSPA statement said: “A number of speedway clubs who employ migrant riders (non-EU) were asked to attend a meeting with UKVI this week.

“This meeting was a result of a number of regular compliance visits to individual clubs as the employers.

“There are administrative issues which all parties are keen to resolve before the start of the 2015 British speedway season.

“The UKVI have offered to hold an operational workshop for club officials to assist them in this complex process.

“In the meantime, the BSPA and UKVI remain committed to work towards a satisfactory outcome.”

BSPA chairman Alex Harkess said: “The UKVI have assured us they will work with us with the aim of ensuring all eligible riders are able to compete in the 2015 season.”