Motourage

Three-time FIM Speedway Grand Prix world champion Nicki Pedersen has scotched recent rumors claiming he was thinking of retiring at the end of the season and is already planning for 2011. The Dane missed the Speedway World Cup with a shoulder injury and hopes to return for the FIM Scandinavian SGP in Malilla on August 14.

Pedersen has endured an inconsistent season in the SGP series and is currently eighth in the standings with 51 points. While this would secure him automatic qualification for the 2011 competition, the Odense-born racer has always had higher aspirations, particularly after winning the world title in such commanding style in 2007 and 2008.

With Pedersen seeking to climb the rankings, he has opted to part company with mechanic Rob Painter as he bids to assemble a title-winning setup for next year.

“Unfortunately, my results this year have not been as desired. There may be many explanations, and the fact is we have not finished analyzing why the results are lacking, Pederson posted on his official website. “However, I now start to move my focus to next season, and from experience, I know it’s better to be early in relation to putting together a new team for a new season. That is why Rob and I have agreed to act now, so that both parties have the freedom and time to plan for the upcoming season. I would like to underline that Rob is a very competent mechanic and a pleasant person, whom I wish much success and happiness in relation to finding a new job within the sport.”