Craig Cook Secures Place In British Speedway Final
West Cumbrian speedway rider Craig Cook has booked his place in the 2026 British Speedway Final after producing an impressive performance in Sunday's qualifying semi final at Leicester, despite currently being without a club.
Cook, who was released by Workington Comets last month, finished third in the qualifying event after collecting 12 points from his five rides. His consistent display included two race wins and three second place finishes, comfortably securing qualification for the prestigious national final.
The semi final was won by Anders Rowe, who topped the standings with 13 points after an outstanding afternoon. Jason Edwards claimed second place with 12 points, edging Cook on countback after suffering his only defeat in the final heat of the meeting.
Another familiar face for Cumbrian speedway supporters also progressed. Drew Kemp, who replaced Cook in the Workington Comets line up earlier this season, qualified for the British Final with 11 points. Teenagers Jody Scott and Will Cairns completed the list of qualifiers, with Cairns securing the final place after winning a run off against Jake Mulford.
Cook's qualification represents a significant boost after a challenging few months. The 2017 British Champion parted company with Workington in June after an injury disrupted his season and the club opted to make a change to its riding line up. Although currently unattached, the experienced rider has shown he remains capable of competing with Britain's leading speedway talent.
The 2026 British Speedway Final will take place on Saturday 15 August at the National Speedway Stadium in Belle Vue, where Cook will be aiming to capture the national title for a second time in his career. The remainder of the field is expected to be confirmed over the coming weeks.
Cook's return to the British Final will be welcomed by speedway supporters across Cumbria, with the Whitehaven born rider continuing to demonstrate the quality and determination that have made him one of the country's most successful riders over the past decade.
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