The OBM Plymouth Gladiators have confirmed the signing of highly rated Slovenian speedway rider Anze Grmek, as the club responds to a dramatic and challenging start to the season.
The 21-year-old European prospect is set to arrive in the UK within days, stepping into the team following a serious crash involving Danish rider Tobias Thomsen during the Plymouth Gladiators’ opening fixture on Good Friday.
Full extent of injuries confirmed after Good Friday incident
An update from the club has since confirmed the extent of Thomsen’s injuries. He sustained a broken femur, which has been stabilised with a titanium rod running from his knee to his hip. He also suffered three minor fractures around the eye socket, which fortunately do not require surgery.
In addition, Thomsen has three cracked ribs and a collapsed lung. He has also been diagnosed with a small brain bleed, which doctors have confirmed is not considered serious.
At this stage, the focus remains firmly on his recovery. While the full timeline is still unclear, Thomsen is determined to work hard to regain full fitness and assess his options moving forward.
Racing remains a huge part of his life, and his aim is to return when he is ready.
The club and wider speedway community have rallied around the rider, with supporters showing their backing both at the track and beyond.
A collection held following the incident raised an incredible £1,387.95, with the club expressing sincere thanks to everyone who contributed and sent messages of support.
With League and Cup fixtures fast approaching, Plymouth have moved quickly to secure a replacement.
Slovenian star Anze Grmek drafted in as replacement
Anze Grmek arrives with strong credentials from across the European speedway circuit.
The Slovenian rider has competed extensively in Poland and his home nation, while also featuring in the SGP2 series, where he has impressed against some of the sport’s top emerging talents.
Still early in his career, Grmek has already represented Slovenia at both team and individual level and is widely regarded as one of the country’s most promising young riders.
He joins the Gladiators with an initial starting match average of 4 points, though club insiders believe he has the potential to quickly exceed that as he adapts to UK tracks.
Grmek also comes highly recommended by former Trelawny Tigers star Matej Zagar, one of Slovenia’s most successful riders, adding further weight to expectations around the signing.
Once formalities are completed, Grmek is expected to make his debut for the Gladiators next week.
He is currently travelling to the UK and will begin preparations with practice sessions at the Coliseum and other British tracks as he settles into his new surroundings.
The move marks a significant early-season moment for Plymouth, balancing adversity with opportunity as the club looks ahead while continuing to support one of its riders through recovery.
For more information visit the Plymouth Speedway Website
