SWINDON Robins are hopeful the problems surrounding non-EU riders’ eligibility to ride in Britain in 2015 can be resolved – an issue that could affect the riding status of skipper Troy Batchelor.

The British Speedway Promoters’ Association and several British clubs are hoping to iron out the administrative issues that led to reports that UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) would revoke visas for riders.

The action could affect Robins captain Batchelor, but not fellow Australian Nick Morris who holds a British passport.

The problems are believed to have come about because UKVI believe speedway’s visa procedures do not match up with their own rules.

Robins owner Terry Russell told the Swindon Advertiser: “We are currently going through the process of going for a new sponsorship, which is what you have to have in place.

“We sincerely hope to have that in place in time for our first league meeting on March 28.

“Troy Batchelor has been spoken to and is aware of the situation and as a club we are going to do all we can to get our sponsorship criteria in place in time.’’ A Robins statement added: “Swindon Speedway will be working closely with fellow member clubs within the British Speedway Promoters’ Association and UKVI to iron out administrative issues relating to non-EU riders.’’ A British Speedway Promoters’ Association (BSPA) statement said: “A number of speedway clubs who employ migrant riders (non EU) were asked to attend a meeting with UKVI this week.

“This meeting was a result of a number of regular compliance visits to individual clubs as the employers.

“There are administrative issues which all parties are keen to resolve before the start of the 2015 British Speedway season.

“The UKVI have offered to hold an operational workshop for club officials to assist them in this complex process.

“In the meantime, the BSPA and UKVI remain committed to work towards a satisfactory outcome.’’ British Speedway chairman Alex Harkess said: “The UKVI have assured us they will work with us with the aim of ensuring all eligible riders are able to compete in the 2015 season.”

The Robins’ 2015 season is due to start on March 28 at Leicester followed by the Easter double header with Poole.

Swindon team boss Alun Rossiter, who is currently away on holiday, said via a statement: “The BSPA have made a statement and we stand by that.

“We will be working closely with other clubs and the UKVI to resolve the situation and we remain cautiously optimistic that Troy’s situation will be finalised in time for the new season.”