SPEEDWAY bosses have agreed tweaks to the Elite League draft system following two days of discussions at the shale sport's AGM.

Top-flight clubs will continue to track two draft riders but both will have the chance to move into the top five.

Elite League promoter Chris Van Straaten, the current vice-chairman of the British Speedway Promoters’ Association, said: “I was extremely encouraged by the atmosphere amongst the eight Elite League clubs.

“As a league we are delighted by the success of the draft system and there are now certain riders who are ready to move into the main body of teams, so tier-one reserves will get an Elite League average after four meetings.

“They will start the season on a converted average from the Premier League but will start the season at reserve even if this is higher than a top-five rider.”

Promoters have also agreed to take on board proposals from Ipswich chief Chris Louis to work alongside Neil Vatcher and Poultec on the development of young British riders, with more funding to be put in place.

The AGM is due to formally conclude on Tuesday, November 3.

Poole Pirates are the reigning Elite League champions having won their third title in a row at the end of September.

BSPA AGM – THE KEY POINTS

  • The Elite League team line-up will remain the same and a points limit of 40.5 will apply.
  • Heat-leader standard riders will be graded into a list with a maximum of three per club. Any new non-British rider assessed at 6.5 or above to join this list.
  • The draft system will be retained and all tier-one riders will start on a converted Premier League average at reserve. However, they will gain an Elite League average after four meetings and will be able to move into the main body of the team.
  • Rider replacement will apply for absent riders who are fourth or fifth in the averages to reduce number of guest riders.