Thomsen to ride elsewhere in 2026 but leaves door open for Poole Pirates return

Danish star Tobias Thomsen revealed he would not be returning to compete for Poole Pirates in 2026.

Thomsen has won five major trophies with the Pirates, including a league and cup double this year in 2025.

But his Danish League place with Brovst means he would be unavailable for several Wednesday nights, therefore he will be racing elsewhere in the UK.

The fan favourite did however leave the door open to a return to Matt and Danny Ford’s promotion in the future.

In a message to the fans via social media, Thomsen said: “Hello everyone, just wanted to let you know that I’ve done my UK contract for 2026 and I can say that I am not taking this shirt (for Poole Pirates) on.

“Not that I don’t want to because I love being a Pirate, that’s for sure.

“But due to Danish commitments and Wednesday nights, it wouldn’t be a good way to do it. With Wednesday nights, I can’t be missing too much.

“When I sign somewhere, I want to be 100 per cent committed. I can’t do that when I’m racing in Denmark, at Brovst, as it’s just been announced.

“It is what it is. I enjoyed the past two seasons, learned a lot, feel like I progressed a lot and had some fun along the way with you guys, the fans.

“Shout out to everyone in the grandstands, you have been absolutely amazing with me this two seasons.

“Matt, Danny, everyone, thank you. The promotion wanted me back, I wanted to come back but on Wednesday nights I don’t want to be there 50 per cent, I want to be there 100 per cent.

“Maybe one day, return, you never know. You never know what’s going to happen.

“I am going to be in the UK again. When you see me, don’t be a stranger, come up and take photos and say hi!”

Pirates’ 2026 line-up includes number one Richard Lawson and British youngster Will Cairns thus far.