Speedway – major injury blow for ambitious Tigers

Glasgow Tigers have been dealt a major blow in the race for the Championship title as one of their star riders has crashed out of the 2017 campaign.

Finnish racer Nike Lunna broke two bones in his back and smashed his shoulder racing in Sweden on Tuesday night, ruling him out for the rest of the season.

The 20-year-old had been enjoying his best spell as a Glasgow rider, producing consistent scores home and away, and was set to play a key role in the Tigers’ playoff matches.

In a post to fans, he said: “I had a nasty crash in Sweden. I am afraid to say that my season is finished.

“I have two broken bones in my back and a broken shoulder. Thank you for all get well messages, I will be back stronger next year.”

Glasgow will now have to operate as a six-man team as the injury has come after the transfer deadline, meaning they will use rider replacement in their remaining fixtures.

The news came hours before Glasgow travel to table-topping Sheffield Tigers on Thursday for their most important away match of the campaign so far. The sides then meet again in the West of Scotland on Saturday.