Great Britain Under-21 star Sam Hagon is optimistic about the Young Lions' chances for redemption in the FIM Speedway of Nations – SON2 in Manchester on Friday. The event will see eight countries compete over 28 heats, with the highest-scoring team crowned FIM Team Speedway Under-21 world champions at the National Speedway Stadium. GB faces strong competition from 16-time champions Poland, as well as teams from Denmark, Latvia, Australia, Germany, Czech Republic, and Sweden.
Last year, GB finished last in the SON2 event in Riga, which nearly cost them their spot in this year’s competition. However, with Manchester named as the host city, the Young Lions qualified as the host nation and are determined to take full advantage. Hagon, alongside SGP2 rider Leon Flint and the in-form Dan Thompson, believes they have a strong chance despite the formidable lineup of rival teams.
Hagon emphasizes the importance of teamwork and consistency, noting that avoiding last places is crucial in the competition. He acknowledges that while Poland and Denmark boast three SGP2 stars each, GB’s familiarity with the Manchester track could provide an edge. Hagon is confident in his team’s ability to secure top positions and accumulate points consistently, which is key to winning the event.
Poland remains a favorite with top riders like Wiktor Przyjemski and Bartosz Banbor. Other strong contenders include Denmark, led by Jesper Knudsen, and Sweden, making a return with SGP2 duo Philip Hellstrom-Bangs and Casper Henriksson. Australia, Germany, Czech Republic, and Latvia also field strong teams, making for an exciting and unpredictable race for the championship. Hagon hopes the home crowd in Manchester will inspire the Young Lions to perform at their best.
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