The Middlesbrough Tigers have announced their National Development League team for 2026 – with three significant incomings.
The Tigers have persuaded Ben Trigger to shelve plans to take a year out, and he rejoins the club in a heat-leader berth with Nathan Ablitt also added to the top end of the side. Youngster Harry Sadler, son of former rider Nigel, will be a newcomer to the NDL at reserve.
Captain and No.1 Ace Pijper returns from 2025 along with younger brother Stene, with Kai Ward and Charlie Southwick also named after lining up for the club last season.
Promoter Jamie Swales said: “I’m extremely pleased with the team we’ve assembled for 2026. Rider development will always be at the heart of what we do with Middlesbrough, with a clear eye on producing future Redcar Bears riders, but I’m particularly happy that we’ve also built a highly competitive team.
“This is a side capable of pushing for honours, while still keeping the average age of the squad at around just 18 years old, which is something we’re very proud of.
“We are also still actively looking for a title sponsor for the Middlesbrough Tigers. With the team shaping up as well as it has, 2026 could be a fantastic season for a business to have its name associated with the club.”
Words and Image by British Speedway