Newman drafted in for Pirates ahead of 2026 curtain-raiser

Poole Pirates have moved swiftly to sign fan favourite Kyle Newman on a 28-day agreement as cover for the injured Dan Gilkes, as they reshuffle their pack ahead of the start to the 2026 season.

Newman last rode for Poole in 2023 and this will be his seventh season in which he has worn the Pirates' colours.

Confirming the signing, promoter Danny Ford said: “To allow Dan more time to recover, we’re pleased to bring my good friend Kyle Newman back to Wimborne Road on a 28-day arrangement.

"Kyle is someone our fans know well, and he’s determined to come in and do a job for us.

“Although he’s been out of the saddle for a little while, he showed at Redcar in the Tyne-Tees Trophy a few weeks ago that he’s still more than capable of winning races.”

Gilkes, who was due to make his Poole debut on Good Friday, has been working hard to return to full fitness after missing a large part of the 2025 season following a crash at Wimborne Road last May.

He added: “Dan has been working really hard to be ready, but after a couple of practice sessions last week he feels he’s just not quite where he needs to be yet. There’s been a lack of track time for everyone with the weather, so it’s been difficult to get fully up to speed.

“We appreciate his honesty, it’s better to make this decision now rather than risk coming in underprepared at the start of the season.

“We’ll look to bring Dan into the side once he’s fully fit.”