Ford 'thrilled' to welcome teenage sensation Cairns to Poole Pirates

Promoter Danny Ford admitted he was “thrilled” to welcome teenage sensation William Cairns to Poole Pirates next season.

One of the hottest prospects in the sport, Cairns pledged his first SGB Championship club will be the Wimborne Road outfit.

He doesn't turn 16, the minimum age for a Championship rider, until June 29th next year and will step into to the team on a 2.00 average when he is old enough to compete.

Ford said: "William Cairns is undoubtedly one of the hottest prospects in British Speedway, and we are thrilled to have secured his commitment to the Pirates for the next 18 months.

“With multiple clubs vying for his signature, it speaks volumes that William has chosen Poole as the place where he feels he can best develop and improve in this crucial stage of his career.

?? CAIRNS IS COMING!

?? The Pirates have won the race to sign one of British Speedway’s brightest prospects, William Cairns, on an 18-month deal. Eligible to ride when he turns 16 on June 29th, William has chosen Poole as the place to develop his immense potential.

?? Full… pic.twitter.com/DsQTqi0oZw

— Poole Pirates Speedway (@poolespeedway) December 18, 2024

"What he has already achieved in his young racing journey is nothing short of remarkable, and while it’s easy to get excited about his potential, we’re keen to manage expectations.

“The step up to Championship racing is a significant one, and our primary focus will be on providing William with the support, guidance, and environment he needs to thrive without undue pressure.

"Unfortunately, he won’t qualify for a league racing licence until he turns 16 on 29th June, so we’ll begin the season without him.

“But we know he’s eagerly counting down the days, and when that moment comes, our supporters will undoubtedly give him the warmest of welcomes at Wimborne Road. We’re proud to be a part of William’s journey and can’t wait to see what he can achieve with the Pirates."

Ford confirmed that there would be a temporary signing to cover at number seven until Cairns’s arrival.

(Picture: Taylor Lanning Photography)