Monarchs team building took a major step forward when Robert Eriksson signed on for another season. That leaves only one place to fill at third heat leader. There are 7.75 points available to fill this final place.
Monarchs now have three genuine heat leaders for the first time since Kenny McKinna lined up with Peter Carr and Robert Eriksson in 1997. However Jan Andersen will probably ride at number 4 in the initial race order.
Monarchs' chairman Alex Harkess commented:
"We have known for a number of weeks of Robert's desire to return to us and he has known for just as many weeks that we were keen to have him back. However, Robert has taken on new business interests in Sweden and he needed time to decide that he could devote sufficient time to race in Britain in 2001. I'm delighted that he has been able to give us the answered we wished for. Robert became a very popular member of our team in 2000 and our supporters will be delighted that he is coming back in 2001."
Robert Eriksson added:
"I had to be sure in my own mind that I could give the time to racing for the Monarchs. My new business commitments have taken up a lot of my time but I have now made the necessary arrangements and can't wait for the season to get under way. I think we have a tremendous spearhead lined up for our team now that I'm back with Peter and new boy Jan. The rest of the team looks good as well. I'll be coming to Britain this year better prepared than ever and I'll be doing my very best to help the Monarchs win some silverware in 2001. I'm coming back in 2001 to win, win, win and I think we can do it."