MICHELSEN LEAVES POLISH CHAMPIONS LUBLIN

Danish racer Mikkel Michelsen has confirmed his departure from PGE Ekstraliga champions Lublin after inking his name in club history.

Michelsen has played pivotal role in Lublin’s astonishing ascent to the top of the sport since joining them after they gained PGE Ekstraliga promotion for 2019.

The club came within touching distance of their first-ever top-tier title in 2021, but they went all the way this year, topping the table and defeating Gorzow in the play-off final to achieve the greatest season in the club’s history.

Michelsen captained the side and it is unclear where he will go next, although press reports in Poland have linked him with a move to Czestochowa, with his place at Lublin rumoured to be going to triple world champion Bartosz Zmarzlik.

Posting on his social media accounts, Michelsen paid an emotional tribute to the fans and reflected fondly on a fine four years which have seen him win two Speedway European Championships and establish himself in Speedway GP.

He wrote: “Dear Lublin, Don’t know where to start but after four years my time in Lublin is done for now. It has been a hell of a journey and I’m forever grateful for everything we have been through and accomplished together, surviving in the Ekstraliga in 2019, missing the play-offs in 2020 by one point (and battling the pandemic), winning silver in 2021 and now finishing the chapter by becoming Polish champions in 2022.

“No-one ever believed that we could do what we have done and I’m honoured to have been able to be a part of writing history and bringing a gold medal to the club, city and the fans. 

“Motor fans will forever have a special place in my heart and no-one will ever come close to creating that kind of atmosphere, support and passion and I will never forget that. 

“There are always two sides of a story but I won’t get into the details. All I can say is that it hurts to be leaving, but that’s the way sport works sometimes. 

“Lublin I love you and I will never forget the love and support you have been giving me for the last four years. Thank you to the club, managers, track staff and everyone involved in the club.

“It has been an amazing ride and I wish you all the best in the future. Lots of love, MM.”