Big crowd welcomes new season at Armadale Stadium

NEWS Tuesday 8th April 2025, 8:15pm

by Edinburgh Monarchs Speedway

  Edinburgh Monarchs

A very big crowd packed the terraces to welcome the new speedway season at Armadale Stadium last Friday as Stellar Monarchs took on Glasgow Tigers.

On a chilly evening, supporters were well warmed up by a classic Scottish derby clash which saw the scores see-saw back and forth throughout the evening, with Tigers pipping Monarchs at the end.

Stellar Monarchs Co-Promoter John Campbell said, "It was an evening well worthy of its title of the 'Biggest rivalry in British Speedway' with supporters of both sides turning out in force to back their teams. It was wonderful to see and I thank everyone for coming along.

"Early season matches can be unpredictable and it was a good opportunity for our team to get underway in competitive action - there is little more competitive than a derby!

"There were plenty of signs to be optimistic about with the team for this season, with five riders taking a heat win and Max James showing some good moments.

"I am confident that the team will continue to grow into the season and I am excited to see what we can do."

The Scottish Cup second leg takes place this Friday at Peugeot Ashfield Stadium in Glasgow with the Monarchs looking to avenge the first leg 4 point defeat.

Oskar Polis will make his Monarchs debut and we are all looking forward to that. However, Paco Castagna will be missing on international duty riding in the Italian Championship.

Campbell added, "We have caused some upsets in second legs in the past and that is the aim for Friday. We are particularly excited to see Oskar take to track also.

"Unfortunately Paco will be missing as he is racing in the next round of the Italian Championship on Saturday. Paco tried every possible way to ride for us on Friday and to make it back to Italy on time to sign on for Saturday's meeting but it has proven impossible.

"Our thanks goes to Drew Kemp who steps in to cover for Paco.

"I am certain Friday's match will be a great encounter and I encourage all Monarchs fans to head along the M8 to support the team at Ashfield."

There will be more speedway action coming up in a Saturday special this week at Armadale Stadium as Stellar Monarchs Academy kick off their season against Middlesbrough Tigers from 7pm.

Campbell continued, "With the Monarchs away on Friday it is great to continue to offer weekly speedway at Armadale Stadium this week as the Academy take centre stage on Saturday from 7pm.

"This level of racing is well worth watching and we look forward to seeing the team in action for the first time this season."

Tickets for Saturday's match are available now:

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