Wolverhampton speedway legend Tai Woffinden makes decision on 2026 Grand Prix campaign almost 12 months on from horror crash

Monmore hero Woffinden, 35, had been offered a permanent wildcard for the 2026 campaign by the Speedway GP Commission.

But he has taken the decision to focus on his continued recovery from the devastating injuries he suffered in Poland at the end of March last year.

Woffinden, an 11-time winner of the Grand Prix in his decorated career, insists he is looking to "return to the level I know I can reach" after working hard on the long road to recovery over the last 12 months.

He said: “After a lot of thought and careful consideration, I’ve decided that I won’t be taking up the opportunity to ride in the Grand Prix this season.

“I’m incredibly grateful to have been given this opportunity, and I truly appreciate the belief and support that has been shown in me. It means a great deal, and this certainly wasn’t an easy decision.

“Over the past year, my main focus has been getting back to doing what I love most — racing my bike again. I’m really happy to be back on track and looking forward to the season ahead."

Woffinden was placed into an induced coma and broke 15 bones during the terrifying smash in Krosno, Poland, early in the 2025 season. He was eventually released from hospital on April 18 

The two-time Wolverhampton star - who represented the club between 2009 and 2014 and in 2016 - has returned to training with laps at his base in western Australia ahead of a return to action.

He has 2026 club competition in his sights having signed for two European clubs, Polish outfit Ostrow and Malilla in Sweden.

And the three-time world champion says he will continue the work in a bid to return to the level it takes to compete in the leading events.

“For me, this year is about continuing to build momentum and working towards the goals I had set for myself before last year’s accident," Woffinden added.

Taking a step-by-step approach feels like the right decision for where I am right now.

“I know what it takes to compete at the highest level in the Grand Prix series, and at this stage my priority is continuing to build that momentum and returning to the level I know I can reach.

“I want to say a big thank you to my sponsors, my team, the organisers and all the fans who have supported me along the way. The support I’ve received has meant more than I can put into words.

“I’m excited for the challenge ahead and looking forward to getting back out there and racing.”