Lyon is still hoping Panthers will roar into action this year

Hope comes from private practice sessions getting the green light.

But he’s also issued a cautious note to remind everyone the sport is in the hands of the government.

“The governing body won’t do anything about competitive racing until they get the green light,” Lyon, who has yet to take charge of a Panthers meeting, said.

“My own personal opinion is that we will see some speedway racing this year.

“Any later than August will make it difficult to get league competition going, but I would hope it would return earlier than that.

“The country had never seen anything like this before so there is no script for us to follow.

“It’s why why things change daily and there has to be fluid decision making as the guidance re the virus and its impact is followed.

“As a sport we just need to be ready when it is time and we hope that is sooner rather than later.”

Panthers should have started competitive racing on March 19.

The 2020 season for Panthers was originally scheduled to finish on September 7.

Meanwhile Peterborough Panthers’ favourite Niels-Kristian Iversen launches his season with Polish side Gorzow on Sunday.

Iversen has returned to the Edward Jancarz Stadium, where the Dane previously had the best spell of his career, after two tough seasons with Torun.

But they have a tough start as they face reigning champions Leszno in a behind closed doors meeting.

Iversen said: “Now I am back at Gorzow and my focus is to go in and do my bit for the team.

“I know the club pretty well and I know the fans are great there.

“I have always had a good relationship with the fans. I can’t wait to get back on the track for them.”