Coventry Bees have confirmed that star Russian rider Emil Sayfutdinov is to join the club next week.
The reigning Elite League champions had been searching for a new number one to replace Hans Andersen who has been sidelined with a foot injury.
"It's an absolutely massive signing not only for us, but for British Speedway," team boss Alun Rossiter said.
"Emil is box office, he's the rider everyone is talking about and everyone should see the benefits from it."
The 21-year-old exploded onto the speedway scene in 2009, winning two of the first three events of the season before finishing third in the world rankings.
"Emil is so keen to come here, and I was amazed by what I saw when I went out to Poland earlier in the week to tie the deal up. He is just so professional, and we can't wait for him to get started with us," added Rossiter.
The Bees have submitted a re-declared line-up which will come into effect for Wednesday's trip to King's Lynn.
Posted: Fri May 20, 2011 4:49 pm