Hunters PSŻ Poznań have just received a historic 1.25 million złotych grant from the city — a move that not only secures their upcoming season in Metalkas 2. Ekstraliga but also signals a broader commitment to speedway racing in Poznań. This record investment places the club in the spotlight as they gear up for a transformative year both on and off the track.
A Game-Changer for Speedway in Poznań
The city of Poznań has officially announced its largest-ever financial support for a speedway club, awarding Hunters PSŻ Poznań a staggering 1.25 million złotych. This funding, the highest in the club’s history, will be paid in two instalments and marks a serious statement of intent about the city’s support for the sport. The money will go towards both first-team league participation and the development of young riders in the club’s speedway academy.
This backing came as part of an open grant competition run by the city’s Sports Department, aiming to promote physical culture and elevate local sporting initiatives. For Hunters PSŻ Poznań, the timing couldn’t be better.
More Than Just Numbers
For the club, this investment is not only about figures — it’s a symbolic nod to the growing role of speedway in the city’s identity.
This is a vital signal that speedway has a firm place in Poznań’s sporting DNA. We’re incredibly grateful for the city council’s trust and support.
the club said in a statement.
Indeed, the decision also reflects a visible resurgence in fan enthusiasm. With growing attendance and louder crowds, the stands at Stadion Golęcin are starting to mirror the sport’s golden days.
A Club on the Rise
Hunters PSŻ Poznań are entering the 2025 season of Metalkas 2. Ekstraliga with high hopes. After finishing fourth last year, the club is targeting a stronger showing this time around — and they now have the resources to back up their ambitions.
A major portion of the city’s funding will go towards the club’s youth academy. With speedway deeply embedded in Polish motorsport culture, nurturing young talent is not just a necessity — it’s a tradition. This funding ensures that Hunters PSŻ Poznań can continue running their training schools and development programmes, building the next generation of racers who could go on to represent Poland internationally.
We can now focus more on training infrastructure, youth recruitment, and strengthening the team without the usual financial pressure. This grant allows us to think long-term.
noted Jacek Kannenberg, the club’s sporting director.
Speedway’s Cultural Pulse in Poland
Speedway holds a unique position in Polish sport. Despite often being underrepresented in mainstream media, it boasts one of the most loyal fanbases and some of the most electrifying atmospheres in Polish stadiums. Clubs like Hunters PSŻ Poznań play a vital role in sustaining this tradition locally, and with support like this, it’s clear the sport is being taken seriously again.
According to a 2022 report by Speedway Ekstraliga, Poland hosts some of the world’s strongest speedway leagues, with riders like Bartosz Zmarzlik gaining international acclaim.
A Mixed Start, but Hopeful Season Ahead
Despite the recent financial high, the team faced a tough reality check in their preseason sparring matches. In a two-legged face-off against lower-league rivals Polonia Piła, Hunters PSŻ Poznań managed a solid home win but stumbled in the return fixture, losing 57:32.
Several top riders were missing due to international obligations or injuries, and team rotations saw young and less experienced riders taking centre stage. The result raised eyebrows, but also provided valuable insight ahead of the regular season.
We saw where we stand and what needs attention — it’s part of the journey.
said coach Kannenberg.
Poznań’s Broader Sports Vision
It’s worth noting that this record dotation isn’t a one-off. The city of Poznań has also extended financial support to other local teams, including American football side Armia Poznań and the women’s lacrosse squad, Poznań Hussars Ladies. The aim? To cultivate a city-wide sporting ecosystem where local talent, no matter the discipline, can thrive.
A Turning Point for Poznań Speedway
With the 2025 season set to kick off, all eyes are now on Hunters PSŻ Poznań. They have the financial foundation, growing fan backing, and a renewed sense of purpose. This could very well be the season they go from promising contenders to genuine league frontrunners.
