SHEFFIELD boss Simon Stead is hopeful the team signed up for 2020 can be kept together next year.

With a shortened season starting in August the best case scenario because of the pandemic, Stead sees no reason why the same riders shouldn’t stay with the club into 2021.

British Speedway bosses are ‘cautiously optimistic’ of some racing taking place depending on the next phase of recovery implemented by the government in early July.

Now Stead would like to see agreement between clubs that the option is there to keep the same side next year.

“I am confident that the team you’ve all been so excited to see will take to the track in Sheffield colours at some point,” he said.

“Of course I hope that’s in the coming months in 2020 – but even in the worst case scenario of having to wait until next year, I see no reason why we wouldn’t be able to track the same seven riders who we’ve got currently waiting for the thumbs up to go back racing.

“The deals are all in place, all the guys remain genuinely excited to be a part of this new era for Sheffield Speedway and we all share the same feeling that with this team, we could achieve some special things for the club.”

Sheffield had enjoyed a triumphant pre-season with the high profile signing of triple World Champion Nicki Pedersen, a club record sponsorship deal with Tru Plant and a return to their traditional Thursday race night.

Several clubs are pointing to the fact that they rarely fill their stadia and social distancing, particularly if the two metre aspect is reduced, can be used.