2026 Women's British Championship Individual Final - Cycle Speedway

Leicester Cycle Speedway Club hosted the 2026 Women's British Open Final on August Bank Holiday Monday. Out and out favourite, Emily Burgess (Astley & Tyldesley) is the current World & British Champion and was the woman to beat. A whole host of riders lined up to shoot her down, none more so than last years Silver medallist, Elizabeth Rigley-Porter of Sheffield. Rigley-Porter is on top form and surely destined to win this title, she just needs to stay out of trouble and put 5 solid races together. Lily Parr (Ipswich) is the current U16 World Champion and is a top contender for Emily Burgess's title, as is the British Champion of 2023 & 2024 Maddie Saunders of Southampton CSC. Sheffield's Lacey Ackroyd is one of the current breed of youngsters trying to topple the top Women of the sport. Her 3rd place in 2025 at Southampton came out of the blue, but her form in 2026 has been nothing short of spectacular so keep your eyes on Lacey! Amberly Gant (Kesgrave) is from the same mould as Ackroyd, strong, quick out of the start and difficult to pass when at full speed. Of the rest, Laura Watson (Sheffield) debuted in 2008 and is the current over 30's Champion, Lucy Whitehead (Leicester) is a formidable opponent for any of the competitors today and the first ever Women's Champion way back in 2006. Rachel Lammin (Southampton) is a very experienced ex British Champion and can win races freely. Of the rest, Esmae Lewis (Newport), Rebekah Humphries (Birmingham), Lexie Curtis (Poole), Ella Case (Kesgrave) and Georgia Burt (Wednesfield) can upset some of the top Women on their day! Special Mention for debutants Lola Martin (Hethersett) and Ava Chapman (Poole) who are the youngest riders to make a British Women's Final, good luck!