CHRIS Holder has been hit with a nine-month ban from British racing, following the controversial meeting between King’s Lynn and Pirates on July 13.

Poole asset Holder, who moved to King's Lynn on loan during the winter, was found guilty in his absence by the Speedway Control Bureau of breaching rules SR 3.2.7 and SR 3.2.10, having raced in just two heats at the Adrian Flux Arena, and twice missed the two-minute time allowance.

Rules SR 3.2.7 and SR 3.2.10 cover withdrawing – or threatening to withdraw – from a meeting on the official fixture list.

Initially hit with a 28-day ban and then axed by King’s Lynn, the Aussie has now received further suspension until April 13, meaning he will miss the start of next season.

The Sydneysider has also been fined £3,000.

A statement from Speedway Control Bureau boss Neil Vatcher said: “After reading through witness statements and unfortunately with no attendance from Mr Holder or his representative, so no evidence of defence, the members found Mr Holder in breach of two speedway regulations, SR 3.2.7 and SR 3.2.10.

“As a result of being found guilty, Mr Holder’s SCB registration will be suspended for a period of nine months from the date of the offence and a fine of £3,000.”

Poole team boss Neil Middleditch saw his men secure a 52-40 victory on the controversial evening but later labelled the meeting "a farce", claiming certain home riders had wanted the meeting called off.