SWINDON Robins heat leader David Bellego will start Thursday’s crunch Premiership fixture against Belle Vue Aces as a World Champion, after scooping gold with France at the World Team Long Track Championship on Saturday.

The French ace scored 13 points in Morizes, France, as the host nation defeat Great Britain by 10 points with Germany in third.

Despite not featuring, Robins reserve Zach Wajtknecht was also involved in Saturday’s meeting – acting as back-up to Great Britain’s James Shanes and Chris Harris.

Swindon Robins team manager Alun Rossiter said: “David is a good guy and I'm delighted for him. It must have been an emotional occasion in his home country to step up to the podium as a World Champion.

"We look forward to seeing him back in Swindon colours at the Abbey Stadium on Thursday night and we hope everyone comes along to welcome a World Champion."

Meanwhile the date for Robins’ home leg of the Knockout Cup semi-final tie against King’s Lynn Stars has been confirmed.

The Robins will race Dale Allitt’s Stars on Monday, September 10, with the away date still to be announced.