Oxford Silver Machine have won their battle to track American superstars Greg Hancock and Billy Hamill in their quest for Elite League honours this season.

Despite resistance from Coventry, who want a substantial fee from Oxford for their services, the US duo are set to turn out for Silver Machine.

Coventry, who own the pair, were intending to go to court over the matter. But out of respect for Hancock and Hamill, they have indicated they might now let the matter drop.

The object of Coventry's fury is not Oxford, but the British Speedway Promoters Association (BSPA), who have sanctioned the move.

In statement Coventry said: "Having consulted with our legal advisors, we confirmed that we are entitled to expect Oxford to purchase both riders.

"The BSPA had no right to intervene and tell Oxford they could announce the riders in their team.

"We have been advised to take out a high court injunction against the BSPA for blatant breach of the constitution, and that we would be entitled to substantial dam- ages.

"Our legal team then stated that we needed to also serve an injunction on the Oxford promotion. However, to support this action we would also need to serve an injunction on Billy and Greg.

"As a club, we would have no hesitation in fighting for what is right in respect of both the BSPA and the Oxford promotion.

"But when it came to Billy and Greg, we have always regarded them as part of the family and could not stop them from earning a living."

Coventry added that they will no longer buy any riders, as it was not supported by the BSPA.

Commenting on the statement, Oxford boss Nigel Wagstaff said: " I hope we will be able to have the pair on loan and start getting on with promoting this season.

"The affair has gone on so long, perhaps we can get the team into place and make some positive moves.

"We have already been quoted as second favourites to win the Elite League this year and Premiership footballer Graham Stuart, a great fan of the sport, reckons we can do it.

"I hope the early predictions are right, but it's a long way between now and November."

Silver Machine open their season with an Air-Tek challenge against Wolverhampton at Oxford Stadium on Thursday - their new race night.