Reid’s back for 2027

There’s still plenty of racing to be done in 2026 but we are delighted to confirm that at least one member of the 2026 R.E.D Bandits, powered by STS will be wearing our colours in 2027.

And I’m sure that you’re all delighted that our first signing is Reid Battye, the all-action Aussie who has taken the Championship by storm.

The former Superbike champion has made his mark in the Borders both on and off track despite having never ridden in team speedway before he arrived in the town in April.

Despite missing over two months of the campaign as he recovered from a very serious back injury, Reid has been in sparkling form over the last month 64 points and 13 bonus in August alone for the Bandits.

There have also been points-laden guest appearances, most notably for Glasgow, as the 25-year-old crossed the radar of every club in the Championship.

But his name is on a Berwick contract for 2027.

Club owner Jamie Courtney swooped to bring Reid over after some impressive performances in last winter’s Australian Championship, the former road racer being recommended and mentored by the likes of Jason Crump and Craig Boyce.

“Just watching Reid in the Australian championship you could see there was a real racer there,” Courtney said.

“We thought, and said publicly, that Reid could be a slow burner but, despite what was a very serious injury, he has proved to be anything but.

“His form at Shielfield Park has been out of this world but he has also has the ability to learn away tracks very quickly.

“No question there are plenty of clubs that would love to have Reid in their colours next year but he’s a 2027 Bandit.”

Reid himself is delighted to commit himself to the cause again. “I quickly realised that there is something special about both the town of Berwick and the speedway club,” he said.

“From the first day I arrived I’ve felt at home and have really enjoyed my speedway – even the nights when it hasn’t gone quite to plan.

“I’m still riding at tracks for the first or second time but that’s experience I can take into next year. I’ve heard some noise about 2027 but there was never any question that I’d be back with the Bandits.

“There’s at least one cup final; we’re aiming to make it two, left to race in my first British season. I’m very excited about that and to have next season settled so quickly.”