'We are a strong team and we must finish strongly' - John Campbell

NEWS Tuesday 18th August 2026, 8:00pm

by Edinburgh Monarchs Speedway

  Edinburgh Monarchs

The 2026 season is set for a thrilling conclusion with much still to race for. Monarchs Co-promoter John Campbell looks forward to the exciting weeks ahead.

Monarchs race into this Friday's home fixture against Berwick Bandits looking to build upon recent performances in a bid to secure a place in the Cab Direct Championship Playoffs to decide the 2026 league champions.

Monarchs Co-promoter John Campbell knows the team is up to the task, "There is no doubt that we are a strong team and we must finish strongly.

"The league has been extremely competitive this season. As we enter the final handful of matches in the regular season across the country currently only one team looks to have their playoff place secured. There is still a battle ahead, starting this Friday against Berwick.

"For any Monarchs fan that hasn't been along in recent weeks, months, or even years - join us at Armadale Stadium this Friday and let's start a big push to the end of the season. Tell your friends - let's pack the stadium and make plenty of noise to back the team.

"We very much have a team worth watching and worthy of your support. There is still a real chance of silverware this season in both the league and Scottish Cup."

Early team news for Friday

Dan Thompson suffered a heavy crash on Monday at Northampton. Dan was fortunate to limp away from the crash but is suffering with discomfort in his hip.

Campbell continued, "We have been in contact with Dan today and he does have pain in his hip following such a big crash.

"Dan is going to get his hip checked out and we await more news. We are making provisions to cover for Dan should he require further time to recover but we very much hope he is with us on Friday."

Jordy Loftus continues his enforced time on the sidelines due to concussion protocol. Monarchs Academy rider Ben Whalley will cover for Jordy on Friday.

Academy title push continues

This season has been a positive one for both Monarchs and Monarchs Academy teams. The Academy team currently sit top of the WSRA National Development League table with five matches still to race.

"The Academy team have been a joy to watch this season as they have methodically gone about their business to produce many tremendous performances.

"It is coming to the sharp end of the season now. There are no playoffs at NDL level so the team need to keep winning in the remaining league fixtures.

"Academy manager Scott Wilson has assembled a strong team and is driving them forward match by match. It really is a great team to watch."

Monarchs Academy, sponsored by Ross Commercial Finance, are next in action at home on Friday 4th September against Oxford Chargers.

Leicester currently look like the main rival for the title and, with both home and away matches still to race against the Lion Cubs, it is set to be an enthralling conclusion to the season.

Summer Sale on this Friday at the Club Shop

The Summer Sale continues this Friday - exclusively at the Club Shop at Armadale Stadium.

There's lots to choose from including clothing, caps, hats, scarves, programme boards, pens, badges, magnets, keyrings, mugs, water bottles and much more!

Book tickets for Friday now

Tickets for this Friday's match against Berwick Bandits at Armadale Stadium are available to book online now.

Book before 11:59pm on Thursday night to enjoy pre-matchday prices:

Book Tickets