'Rocketman' Lawson back with Pirates in 2026

Poole Pirates have been boosted by the news number one Richard Lawson has agreed terms to remain at the club in 2026.

The racer nicknamed ‘Rocketman’ will once again spearhead the Wimborne Road outfit next season, as they look to defend both their SGB Championship and Knockout Cup crowns.

Lawson enjoyed a phenomenal 2025 campaign for Poole, registering a paid 431 points from 163 races in the skull and crossbones.

He was unbeaten by a Redcar Bears rider across both legs of the 2025 Knockout Cup final, as Poole won 51-39 at the ECCO Arena to seal a 103-77 win on aggregate.

Speaking after that performance, team manager Neil Midleditch said: “What a phenomenon Richard Lawson is. Unbeaten in this cup final and quite simply a points machine. He is just unbelievable.

“I've worked with some great riders in my time and, okay, I know we are in a lower league now, but he is phenomenal on the track and I have total respect for him."

Lawson will come into the Poole line-up on a 9.58 league average next season.