GLOBAL speedway chiefs could leave suspended Darcy Ward in limbo until March 16 or later before deciding his fate.

Two sets of rules published by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) – world speedway’s governing body – over the past year indicate that the case could rumble on for another four weeks – or more.

Article 8.2.1 of the latest FIM Anti-Doping Code, effective January 1, 2015, states: “The International Disciplinary Court shall issue a written decision within 45 days from the date of the end of the hearing” which was heard on January 30.

Poole Pirates asset Ward yesterday hit back at his critics on Twitter by posting: “I'm aware of the 45 day rule but I was told different due to myself n [sic] lawyer pushing the fact the visa issues in speedway atm (at the moment).”

However, a new twist could come from article 20.7 of the same document which contains the caveat that the rules “shall not apply retroactively to matters pending before the effective date”.

In layman’s terms, the previous set of rules, in place from July 1, 2014, should apply to Ward’s failed alcohol test on August 17.

The old code did not set out a definitive time frame for decisions, only a person’s right to “a timely, written reasoned decision” in the FIM’s principles for a fair hearing.

READ: Speedway fans share their views on the Darcy Ward debacle

When contacted by the Daily Echo this week, the FIM’s communications department, based in Switzerland, issued a statement which read: “Under the World Anti-Doping Code and the FIM Anti- Doping Code, the FIM is unable to provide any information on a pending doping case.

“An official press release will be published after the International Disciplinary Court (CDI) has rendered its decision.”

The Daily Echo has yet to receive a response from the FIM seeking clarification over which rules apply to Ward’s case, with Pirates team boss Neil Middleditch also none the wiser.

“Either way, what more they can find out in 45 days? He (Ward) was told he would get a decision a few weeks ago,” said Middleditch.

“I don’t understand why something as simple as an alcohol test, if done correctly, is taking so long.”