Painful exit for Danish racer Hansen in more ways than one

Kenneth Hansen has been left out of work and out of pocket after his Panthers dismissal.

The Danish racer (29) was axed to make way for star new recruit Chris Harris - a decision which brought Hansen’s second spell with the city club to an end after just five meetings.

He has endured a tough start to the season, sitting out meetings due to illness and injury, and not producing the spectacular form he displayed during guest appearances last term.

And it was a painful exit in more ways than one for Hansen as he crashed out of what proved to be his final ride for Panthers last Friday.

Hansen withdrew from a 60-30 defeat at SGB Championship leaders Edinburgh with a hip problem after being sent tumbling into the fence by out-of-control home rider Mitchell Davey.

It was a second big spill in quick succession after Hansen suffered a fractured breastbone and rib damage in a smash in Sweden eight days earlier. He’s now facing a hefty repair bill as well as a search for new employment Kenneth Hansen. on these shores.

“It is never nice to be involved in big crashes, but we all know the risks in speedway,” admitted Hansen.

“It takes its toll on the body and it certainly isn’t good for machinery. I’ve got bills of more than £2,000 to put my equipment right.

“Regardless of the cost involved, machinery can always be replaced. The most important thing is that I’m in one piece and can look for another team place.

“Being dropped is part of the sport, but I think it should have been handled differently. I feel I deserved to be told face-to-face that I was going to be released rather than getting a phone call while on the road after a meeting.

“It’s a shame things haven’t worked out for me so far this season, and I’ll miss the fans who have always given me great support at Peterborough.

“I hope I can start afresh by getting another team place. I’m sure I can do a good job for a team in the UK.”

Hansen scored 29 points in his five Panthers meetings this season, with nine-point hauls at home to Scunthorpe and Redcar his best contributions.