LEICESTER vice-captain Kyle Howarth has informed the club’s management that he will be taking time away from the sport with immediate effect.
The 31-year-old took the decision following the first leg of the Premiership KO Cup Final at Ipswich on Monday after a campaign which has been punctuated by niggling injuries and illness.
He captained the Watling JCB Lions at Championship level in 2021-22 before returning to the club in the top flight last year and has always been a popular figure at the Hydroscand Arena.
Co-promoter and team manager Stewart Dickson said: “Kyle has spoken to me and has been honest and upfront that he’s not really enjoying his speedway at present, and he is taking a break from the sport.
“He is a rider who always wears his heart on his sleeve and we actually spoke a couple of weeks back, because I had an indication that he hasn’t been enjoying his racing this season as much as in previous years.
“We accept his reasons and he leaves with our best wishes to him, his Dad and his mechanic Sharpy who have been a pleasure to work with these last few years.”
The club have informed British Speedway Promoters’ Ltd of the situation and have requested a facility to cover for Howarth, with the second leg of the KO Cup Final coming up on Thursday.
However, they are already exploring options with a view to having a new signing in place by the beginning of next month if at all possible, whilst Ryan Douglas will be taking over as vice-captain.
