Yesterday, the Esklstunalaget Smeden's chairman Tobias Spångberg told SVT Sport that they cannot participate in the elite series without an audience.
"That's too much of our revenue and we can't risk our economy," he said.
They also announced the Swedish Motorcyclists and Snowmobiles Association (Svemo) about their board decision. So far, the smiths, who have won SM gold three years in a row, are the only elite series club that opposes an elite series without an audience.
- It's a decision their club has made and you have to respect that in these times. It is a different year and it can be a long time ahead, but it can also be relief and then they have said that they are happy to join. Then the question is how long the rest of the organization can wait, says Tony Olsson, who is the branch manager for track racing.
"You have to understand that some have it harder"What consequences can this have for the Blacksmiths?
- You have to understand that some clubs have it more difficult than others in these times. We have no insight into their finances, but you have to believe in what they say and handle it, says Olsson.
Can they be punished or degraded, for example?
- It is too early to sit today and say that they should be punished for that decision. So far we have not come. I haven't really figured that out.
"Important to show that one exists"The other eight clubs have concluded that they are able to run the elite series even without crowds.
- It is important for the future that you show that you exist and still exist. We want there to be a series 2021 onwards as well. After all, the elite series clubs have discussed and concluded that a start is possible.
So you think the elite series starts on August 11?
- Yes, I think so. If it comes with eight, seven or six teams, we should see. But the indication is that they join the eight remaining teams.