MATT Ford has received no approaches regarding the purchase of Poole Speedway – and is not expecting to sell prior to next season.

The Pirates chief hinted a sale following the conclusion of the 2019 campaign would be more likely, although it is understood all options remain open.

Ford is seeking to pursue a new business interest abroad and has previously stated the SGB Premiership champions would be better run by someone living in the country.

And the promoter, who has steered Poole to eight league titles in 16 years, says he “cannot guarantee” he will be on these shores after next season.

Ford told the Daily Echo: “I haven’t received any contact with reference to taking the club on so as we stand at this point in time, I’m progressing as I would any other year.

“I have resigned myself to the fact that at this point, unless something unexpected happens, someone will not knock on the door and say they want to take the club on.

“It’s a chicken and egg situation. Were I to say the club would not run because I wouldn’t be available to run it, I think my phone would not stop ringing.

“But while I’m still here, I feel there is a certain amount of comfort.

“I would imagine I would be living in the UK for the majority of 2019 but I cannot guarantee that will continue.

“Long-term, plans haven’t changed. The club is still for sale and, hopefully, we will get some interest in the future.”

Ford has just returned from the British Speedway Promoters’ Association’s AGM, where key decisions over the direction of the sport were made for 2019.

The Broadstone resident’s thoughts have now turned to his team-building plans on a 42.5-point limit, although no deals are expected to be announced until after the club’s trip to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – the reward for title success.

Ford said: “I’m now in the position where I’m looking at contracts, although I am away with the riders next week, so it be that upon my return I finally dot the Is and cross the Ts.

“One or two riders have come forward and if they are not assets of the club then they can go where they like.

“Those are the rules and regulations and it would be unfair of me to stand in anyone’s path.

“At this point in time, I’m still open in my thoughts over which way the team is going to go.

“The AGM only finished yesterday, so I have only known briefly what the points limit will be and I need to take time to reflect and make sure we come to the table with as strong a team as possible.”

Ford is expected to announce additions to the club’s promotion soon following the departure of Gordon Pairman at the end of last season.