The speedway world was left stunned last night when two of the sport's top riders were involved in an incredible melee.
Nicki Pedersen, who rode for Lynn in the early 2000s, took world champion Greg Hancock's wheel away while attempting to pass him during a Swedish league fixture. The 45-year-old crashed to the deck but immediately leapt to his feet in anger.
Despite being known as one of the nicest guys on two wheels, the American sprinted the length of the back straight to confront the Dane before taking him clean off his bike with a flying shoulder tackle.
The pair – who compete against each other in the individual world championship (Grand Prix) series – were separated by team-mates and mechanics with Pedersen, known for his aggressive racing style, being excluded. Hancock finished third during the re-run.
The incident has set social media alight with supporters, journalists and fellow riders helping the video go viral on Twitter and Facebook.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here