Peterborough Panthers positive on Elite League return

Peterborough Panthers are optimistic about their chances of competing in the Elite League this year.

Panthers and Coventry Bees have been in a wrangle with speedway's governing body since November.

"Negotiations are still ongoing to try and ensure we can continue racing in the Elite League in 2011," said Panthers team boss Trevor Swales.

"We are hopeful of a positive outcome and we are thankful for all the support we have received."

In January both teams had stated they were on the verge of taking legal action against the British Speedway Association, and it is unclear whether they are still pursuing that avenue.

The pair have been in an ongoing dispute with the BSPA since walking out of November's annual general meeting after a disagreement over rules for the 2011 season, and have so far been omitted from the upcoming top flight campaign.

Our position is based around there being a level playing field for all clubs and that means the need to have an independent commissioner or body in place

Peterborough team manager Trevor Swales

"Racing in the National League is something we have considered, but we feel that Peterborough is an Elite League club and that is where we should rightly be," added Swales.

"It is frustrating not to have been able to pass on more information to our supporters, but this is a very sensitive issue.

"As we have said previously, our position is based around there being a level playing field for all clubs and that means the need to have an independent commissioner or body in place."

Meanwhile reports have suggested Peterborough, should they race this year, are chasing a star name for their line-up.

It is thought former world champion Nicki Pedersen and two-time under-21 world champion Emil Sayfutdinov are both possibilities, as the pair do not have British clubs.