Joe Thompson was born on 22 April 2004 in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, and grew up in a speedway family alongside his twin brother, Dan. From a young age the pair were standouts on the junior circuit, pushing each other, learning together and competing fiercely.
Joe’s early promise showed clearly when he became British 125cc Champion in 2015, marking him as a future star long before he reached senior level. Fast, determined and technically smooth, he carried that momentum straight into league racing.
Joe stepped into British league speedway in 2019 with the Leicester Lion Cubs, who would become central to his development. As part of the Cub’s youth-driven setup, he played a major role in an era of sustained success:
NDL League Champion – 2019, 2022, 2024
NDL Knock-Out Cup Winner – 2019, 2022
NDL Pairs Winner – 2022
This period gave Joe both experience and a winning mindset, forming the foundation of the rider he is today.
As he progressed, Joe began gaining Championship and Premiership track time with clubs including Leicester, Poole, Ipswich, and Wolverhampton, proving he could adapt beyond youth levels and handle the intensity of higher leagues.
In 2024, Joe made the move to the Plymouth Gladiators, eager to take the next step in his career. That leap has now been rewarded: Joe has re-signed for the 2026 season, signalling both his commitment to Plymouth and the club’s belief in his rising potential.
Joe rides with the confidence of someone who grew up on bikes. His corner speed, low-line control and quick starts make him dangerous in the early laps — a trait that often wins heats before the race has properly settled.
He’s young, adaptable and improving year on year. His time in multiple leagues has helped him gain tools that many riders only acquire much later in their careers.
Despite his age, Joe has big-meeting experience and a history of delivering for teams chasing titles. He doesn’t panic — he resets, refocuses and goes again.
Joe is known as a popular, grounded presence in the pits. He listens, works hard, chips in wherever needed and supports teammates. A rider who buys into the club’s vision.
Re-signing for 2026 indicates his intent: Joe wants stability, track time and the chance to establish himself as a mainstay of the Gladiators’ future. With the right guidance and opportunities, he has the talent to become one of the Championship’s top British riders.
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