Poole Pirates sign exciting youngster Slater Lightcap

New recruit Slater Lightcap insisted he “couldn’t say no” when offered to ride for Poole Pirates and added: “I’ve only heard amazing things about the club.”

The 20-year-old links up with Poole as a replacement for the injured Fraser Bowes and will make his British debut in Wednesday’s SGB Championship home fixture against Scunthorpe.

The American, who currently has a permanent wildcard for the Speedway Under-21 World Championship, was full of thanks to promoters Matt and Danny Ford for the opportunity.

He said: “This is an awesome opportunity for me and my career, I’m super stoked. When Poole reached out to me I couldn’t say no, I’ve only heard amazing things about the club and I can’t wait to come to England!

“I’d like to thank Matt and Danny Ford for all their help getting me sorted in the UK for this to happen! I’m super excited and can’t wait for the first meeting and to see all the fans!"

?? SIGNING | SLATER LIGHTCAP

???? American youngster Lightcap joins the Pirates and is set to make his British debut at Wimborne Road on Wednesday!

?? "When Poole reached out to me I couldn't say no. I've only heard amazing things about the club and I can't wait to see all the… pic.twitter.com/M3Hq1As24Z

— Poole Pirates Speedway (@poolespeedway) August 11, 2026

Lightcap has been mentored by former world champion and ex-Pirate Greg Hancock, who has also worked with his now teammate Will Cairns.

Promoter Danny Ford said: "We are delighted to have found a replacement at last and in Slater I feel we have a rider more than capable of holding his own at reserve.

“Of course, it is a bit like last season when Will joined us once he was old enough and had to learn quickly. Slater more so as he is even less experienced on the British tracks but his ability to learn is natural.

“He is just outside a medal position currently in the SGP2 and of course his connections with Greg will prove valuable. What better mentor could you have than a four times World Champion?

“Will (Cairns) has certainly benefited from Greg's experience and tutoring and with the support of the Poole fans making Slater feel at home as a Pirate, I am sure our find will be an all-round win-win situation."

(Picture: Taylor Lanning Photography)