Mateusz Cierniak - key rider
Mateusz Cierniak, a 23-year-old rider, scored 11 points in Orlen Oil Motor Lublin’s match against Bayersystem GKM Grudziądz, helping the team qualify for the PGE Ekstraliga play-offs. During the game Cierniak was the most effective rider for the “Koziołki”, with a score of 1,688 surpassing Fredrik Lindgren’s average of 1,667. The match in Grudziądz unfolded as the hosts showed determination from the start to secure a favorable result. Cierniak, who grew up on concrete tracks, leveraged his experience on the Hallera street track, where he last raced successfully.
Contract and future
Orlen Oil Motor Lublin decided to extend the contract with the young Polish rider, dropping the experienced Fredrik Lindgren. At first glance the Swede appears to be a better rider, but his season average does not confirm that advantage. Cierniak, with a score of 1,688, seems more suitable for racing in Tarnów, where the track has a hard surface, and Lindgren, due to a serious broken leg at the start of the season, may not perform well in those conditions.
Tarnów track and planned changes
From the 2027 season Orlen Oil Motor Lublin will use the Tarnów venue on a guest basis due to the renovation of their own stadium. Most likely the track in Lesser Poland will become their home for two years, which is significant for further cooperation with Cierniak. His role at Tarnów could be decisive in upcoming seasons, and for a former U-24 world champion this is a moment to showcase his skills in serious speedway. Cierniak brought Orlen Oil Motor Lublin into the play-offs, and fans of the “Koziołki” would not mind if he was equally effective in decisive matches. If he utilizes the Tarnów track, it could be a turning point in his career. Cierniak will continue the season in Tarnów, where his role may prove decisive in the coming years.
