VIEWS FROM THE BOX

Speedway riders will tell you about the differences in tracks around the UK. They will tell you about how tracks use different materials and the way that tracks are shaped, for example, a tight entry or exit to the corners.

Just as riders experience differences at each track, the views and control panels in each referee box is also varied.

As per the Speedway regulations, the referee's box must be located on the outside of the track, be close to the starting area (it is not always directly in line with the start) and must be sufficiently high to give an unhindered overall view of the track and starting area. The box should have a roof, be clean and well lit. It should also be capable of being locked to prevent unauthorised access.

What is common are the controls that referees have at their finger tips. The switchboard must have a control for operating the random starting device, the signal lights and a warning horn, siren or bell.

The layout of these control panels vary from FIM control panels which boxed control units to a series of light switches which are turned on and off in the same way as you might turn on your lights at home.

Some images of referee boxes and their views is provided on this page to give an insight into the different boxes and views we encounter when refereeing.

Workington - this brand new box was first used for the Championship Pairs meeting in April 2025.

Edinburgh - the referee box is set forward of the start line. The control panel has a series of switches.

Diagram of a typical FIM-style referee control panel

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Plymouth - the referee's position is slightly in front of the start line. The control panel is a series of switches.

Birmingham - the box is well in front of the start line in the top of the grandstand. The control panel is a standard FIM panel.