Tickets for the launch event at Oxford Stadium have been placed on sale as the world-famous Oxford Cheetahs prepare to compete in their first competitive meeting for 15 years.
Managed by three-times World Speedway Champion Jason Crump and captained by seven-times British Champion Scott Nicholls, the Cheetahs will host Scunthorpe Scorpions on Wednesday, April 13, in the British Speedway Championship (7.30pm).
The evening will bring an end to almost a decade of closure for the Cowley venue, which has undergone a major regeneration programme to restore its facilities to their former glory.
Adults aged 16 or older can be part of the Cheetahs’ return for £18 while those aged 12-15 can gain entry for £6. Children under 12 meanwhile are admitted for just £1. With the opening meeting coinciding with half-term holidays, club officials have called on the public to turn out in force and be part of Oxford Stadium’s historic launch night.
“This is the first opportunity for people to step foot inside one of Oxford’s iconic sports venues in 10 years,” said Oxford Speedway promoter Jamie Courtney. “So much hard work has gone into developing the site, and it’s with real excitement we can now put tickets on sale.
“We have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and support the return of Oxford Speedway has generated both locally, nationally and even worldwide. We’re expecting a bumper crowd so I would urge anyone considering attending the fixture to purchase their tickets as soon as possible.
“We hope to have all areas of the stadium open for public use, including all outside viewing areas, our Grandstand Restaurant, Sports Bar and Executive Suites. We’re in the process of finalising a programme of activities to make our launch an afternoon and evening for families to remember and will be confirming more details in the coming days.
“These are exciting times for speedway in Oxford and we can’t wait to welcome our fans trackside next month.”
Club captain Nicholls will be backed up by former Grand Prix star Troy Batchelor, three-times Premiership winner Kyle Newman, Australian Cameron Heeps, rising British star Jack Thomas plus reserves Josh MacDonald and Dillon Ruml in Cheetahs’ corner.
The experienced racer has been involved in multiple Grand Prix finals and won 14 domestic trophies in the UK since turning professional in 1994. But he admits leading the Cheetahs out on April 13 will be a big highlight in his 27-year riding career.
“The months have turned to weeks and now weeks are turning to days – I’m so excited for our first meeting back,” said Nicholls. “We’ll reflect on this night for many years to come, and as a squad we are determined to mark the return of Oxford Speedway with a positive result.
“I can’t wait to hear the roar of the crowd for heat one, and I know it will be an emotional evening for many who have been locked out of the stadium for the past 10 years. I look forward to seeing everyone on opening night, make sure you buy your tickets before it’s too late!”
Tickets for Oxford Cheetahs vs Scunthorpe Scorpions can be purchased by visiting the club’s website.
Please note, parking at the stadium is limited. However, we are in advanced talks to provide free parking and a shuttle service on race nights at a nearby location within a 10-minute walk of our main entrance. Disabled parking spaces at the stadium are available on a first come first served basis.
