OXFORD Speedway will host a fans’ favourite event in the summer as the return of the sport to the city gears up.

Championship Pairs will take place at Oxford Stadium on August 12.

The contest sees the top two riders from each second tier club compete against each other in round-robin groups before the title is decided via a knockout.

Next year’s Championship Pairs has the added bonus of taking place the evening before the British Grand Prix at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium.

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Oxford Speedway promoter Jamie Courtney is hopeful more high profile meetings can take place at Sandy Lane.

The 33-year-old, who is also promoter at Championship side Berwick, said: “The Championship Pairs is a fantastic competition which always delivers thrill a minute racing and unites fanbases across the UK for one evening.

“There was plenty of interest from other clubs to host the event, so we’re naturally delighted to have been selected.

“It’s a fantastic boost for not only Oxford Speedway but also local people and businesses.

“Many supporters will travel from afar to attend the British Grand Prix the following evening, and what better way to start the weekend than visiting Oxford and being part of our regeneration.

“Hosting high profile events of this nature and introducing more people to our sport is part of our long-term ambition.

“Some strong riders have already been confirmed to race in the Championship next year, but I see no reason why Oxford shouldn’t be in the mix for top honours on the night.”

Courtney has also confirmed that British Speedway Promoters has given the green light for Oxford Speedway to track a team in next year’s National Development League.

Eight teams will contest in the third tier, which provides young riders with a platform to develop in a competitive environment.

Former National League riders include three-time world champion Tai Woffinden, and Speedway of Nations world champions Dan Bewley and Robert Lambert.

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Courtney, who raced for Oxford between 2004 and 2005, added: “The National Development League is proven to deliver world-class talent and as a club committed to youth development, it is important we track a team in the third tier.

“We want to develop new and existing talent at Oxford Stadium by establishing a leading academy where young riders have every opportunity to reach their full potential through regular track time and competition.

“We’re working hard to put together a competitive team, but our core National League focus will be to improve our riders’ abilities as the season progresses.”

National League rider announcements will be confirmed by Oxford Speedway in the new year.