FOXES NAME FIRST TWO FOR ‘27
NORTHAMPTON Foxes have made a flying start to team building with Rider of the Year Kye Thomson and late-season signing Mitch McDiarmid both agreeing deals to remain with the club in 2027.
The Australian duo are first names to be confirmed by the Foxes for their second Premiership campaign, with the signings subject to approval as the regulations for next season are still to be officially ratified.
28-year-old Thomson became arguably the signing of the season anywhere in the Premiership as he greatly exceeded expectations in his first full year at the top level, with a points-laden spell at reserve then translating into solid scores in the main body of the side.
Meanwhile McDiarmid, who will turn 19 next March, is one of the most sought-after properties in the sport and the Foxes were delighted to hand him his official top-flight debut this summer, where he raced in five meetings prior to a full campaign in 2027.
Thomson was in attendance at the Foxes’ end of season party on Saturday, whilst McDiarmid sent a video message due to a prior commitment in Poland.
And co-promoter Paul Hunsdon admits the club were keen to bring both riders back to the Shaleway regardless of any other permutations for next year.
He said: “Kye really was a no-brainer for us. I think he was an exceptional signing in our first season, and what he showed on-track at both levels this year really underlines his capability.
“The exciting thing is there’s more to come with him and he’ll be looking to improve his equipment further over the close season.
“He wanted to be back at Northampton, we wanted him to be back, and we very quickly reached an agreement with him. He’s been terrific for us both on and off the track, and it’s really positive that he will be part of the side again.
“Mitch impressed everyone with his attitude and commitment during the short period he was with us this year, and he’s clearly a rider for the future.
“He’s going to be training hard and investing in equipment over the winter period in the UK and the Australian summer. We feel we’ve got a rider who has the potential for substantial growth in his average in 2027, and he’ll play a key part for the team.
“We mentioned when Mitch joined us in the latter stages of the season that we saw him as being part of our plans for next year, and we’re delighted to be able to make it happen.
“It’s really good news to have those two on board, and we are continuing to discuss options and plans with a number of our 2026 team and also some potential new blood for next year.”
Further announcements regarding the 2027 season will follow in due course, with clubs to be governed by an overall points limit and a likely extension to the existing Rising Star scheme, full details of which are to be officially confirmed.