Poole Pirates promoter Ford delighted to seal signing of talented Gilkes

Promoter Danny Ford is excited to see what Dan Gilkes has to offer in 2026 after he was confirmed as the fifth member of next year’s Poole Pirates septet.

The 23-year-old joins Richard Lawson, Will Cairns, Fraser Bowes and Lewi Kerr at Wimborne Road next season.

Gilkes’s achievements include helping Sheffield secure the SGB Premiership title in 2023 and the Knockout Cup in 2024.

And despite seeing his season ended prematurely at Wimborne Road in a crash last term, Ford believes the Northampton-born racer will be a key part of their 2026 line-up.

He said: "Dan has been a target of ours for quite some time, so to finally be able to welcome him to Poole is something we’re absolutely delighted about.

“He’s been extremely professional in every interaction so far, and with an injury-free season under his belt, we firmly believe he can now push on and reach his full potential.

“We’re excited to see what he can bring to the team in 2026.”

Gilkes added: "I am really happy to be announced as a shipmate for the 2026 season.

“Obviously, last season I suffered a knee injury whilst battling with the Pirates but thankfully the recovery is going well."

(Picture: Taylor Lanning Photography)