The Leicester Lions have confirmed a major boost ahead of the 2026 campaign with the return of Australian star Sam Masters, who will also step into the role of club captain.<\/p>\n
The 34-year-old has become a key figure at the Hydroscand Arena, Beaumont Park since joining the Watling JCB Lions ahead of the 2024 season. Previously best known for his long association with Wolverhampton prior to the closure of Monmore Green, Masters first rode for Leicester back in 2015 as a doubling-up rider.<\/p>\n
After switching to the Lions full-time, Masters quickly established himself as a leader within the team, serving as vice-captain to Max Fricke as Leicester enjoyed a hugely successful spell. Over the past two seasons, the Lions reached two Premiership Grand Finals and lifted the KO Cup, underlining their status as one of the sport\u2019s leading sides.<\/p>\n
Masters returns for 2026 on an average of 7.28, following a consistent campaign which included a formidable home record. He scored double figures on eight occasions in league action at Beaumont Park, playing a central role in Leicester\u2019s title challenges.<\/p>\n
Speaking about his decision to remain with the club, Masters said he felt settled and eager to continue building on recent success.<\/p>\n
\u201cI don\u2019t like switching clubs too much, I feel pretty settled and when you feel like that there\u2019s no point in leaving!\u201d<\/em> Masters told the Leicester Speedway website.<\/p>\n Reflecting on the near-misses in the Premiership, he added:<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve enjoyed the last two years at Leicester, and although two second places is hard to take, at the same time it\u2019s shown how successful we\u2019ve been. There have been plenty of other teams below us in those two seasons!\u201d<\/em> (Leicester Speedway website)<\/p>\n