“The fans deserve success and we’ll be giving everything”

New Plymouth Gladiators number one Danny King heads into the upcoming season full of optimism, as he prepares to lead the side in their push for a playoff place.

With a strong track record in British Speedway and a reputation for consistency, King arrives at the Coliseum ready to embrace both the challenge and the opportunity. Having already enjoyed success at the Plymouth track in the past, he’s confident that with the right setup and team spirit, the Gladiators can turn their home circuit into a real stronghold this season.

We caught up with King ahead of the new campaign to discuss his move to Plymouth, his preparations over the winter, and his ambitions for the year ahead.

What attracted you to signing for the Plymouth Gladiators?

Obviously the changes in the league played a part, but for me it just felt like the right opportunity at the right time.

It’s a club that’s building something and I wanted to be part of that.

You’ve raced at Plymouth before, what do you make of the track?

It’s definitely different, but I’ve always ridden well there and had some good meetings.

I firmly believe that once I get dialled in and sorted with my setup, we can make it a bit of a fortress. And if you can win your home meetings, you’re not far away from the playoffs.

How have you been spending your off-season and preparing for the new campaign?

It’s been a fairly normal winter for me. Spending time with the family, getting fit and getting the bikes sorted.

We haven’t made too many changes because last season was a successful one for me, so we’re sticking with what works. It’s just been a case of rebuilding the bikes, getting the engines serviced and making sure everything is ready to go.

How are you feeling heading into the season with Plymouth?

I’m feeling good. I won’t lie, it’s a bit of a trek for me travel-wise, but that’s part of the job as a speedway rider.

Once we get down there and get going, I think we’ll be in a good place.

What are your targets for the season?

The main goal is to get Plymouth into the playoffs. That’s the priority.

You don’t want to look too far ahead or put too much pressure on yourselves. If we can be strong at home and put ourselves in that position, then we can reassess and see what’s possible from there.

What role can the fans play this season?

They play a big part. You don’t always notice it during the race because you’re so focused, but when you come back in after a big result and the crowd are right behind you, it definitely lifts you.

That kind of support makes you want to keep pushing and gives you that extra bit of motivation.

What are your thoughts on the atmosphere at the Coliseum?

The last time I was there, the atmosphere was brilliant. It felt like there was a really good crowd in and a proper buzz about the place.

It’s a great setup and I’m really looking forward to experiencing that every week.

Do you have a message for the Plymouth fans ahead of the season?

I’m really excited to get started and I know the fans are very loyal. They deserve success, and we’ll be doing everything we can to give that to them.

I like the look of the team, I think we’re as strong as anyone so we’ll give it our best shot and see where it takes us.