Edinburgh Monarchs co-promoter John Campbell admits the team might not race next season but has vowed to fight on.
The club face an uncertain future with their current Armadale Stadium home set to close, while plans for a new stadium in Livingston suffered a blow when the land was sold to another bidder.
But a determined Campbell insists club chiefs will continue the fight and hasn’t ruled out the possibility of a short-term return to Armadale.
The club hosted a hugely successful Farewell to Armadale 2022 Scottish Open event last week, which was fittingly won by team captain Sam Masters, while a string of Edinburgh legends took in the occasion.
Campbell said: “It seems to be the end but while the stadium is still standing, and it will do that for a good while yet, there is a chance.
“After that, we are still looking –searching everywhere –to find a new venue. We will not give up until we find a new home for the Monarchs without question. We are absolutely committed to doing that.
“We are not going to give up. Hopefully in 2023 but if not then thereafter in 2024.”
The Monarchs had earlier this season been given notice to vacate Armadale Stadium – their home since 1997 – by owners the Cochrane family who intended to sell the land.
That prompted plans for a new West Lothian Community Stadium to be built in Deans but those hopes were dashed when the council chose not to accept the club’s bid.
The deadline for the club to confirm their intention to race in 2023 is fast approaching, while riders are looking to negotiate their futures elsewhere. Campbell added his thanks to everyone involved in their Armadale finale – even if he hopes there’s still life at the stadium yet.
He said: “Even the rain couldn’t spoil what was a wonderful tribute to the longest operating home of the Monarchs where the club has enjoyed so much success.
“Thank you to what was our biggest crowd of the season, turning out to see a significant occasion with a worthy winner. Thank you to everyone who made it possible, including our event sponsor Ratho Coaches and support from EventScotland.”
He added: “I wish to thank everyone who has made it possible over this season and over the years.
“Whoever you may be – Monarchs Fans Trust, Grand Draw, sponsors, advertisers, but most importantly all the fans who have turned out every week to support us – thank you all very much.”
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