A star-studded meeting, featuring three-times world champion Nicki Pedersen, will launch Leicester Lions' new season.

Magnus Karlsson, who made a massive impact when he joined the club last season, has been granted a testimonial in recognition of his 10 years' service to British speedway.

It will be staged at Beaumont Park on Saturday, March 17, and Pedersen is the first major rider to accept an invitation.

The Dane, a multi-national champion and world title winner in 2003, 2007 and 2008, is delighted.

"I've known Magnus and his brothers for so many years and I ride together with Magnus in the Swedish League," said Pedersen.

"He asked me if I was interested because he wanted to get some good names at his meeting, so it's nice to help and it also helps me to get as many meetings as possible before the first Grand Prix."

It will be a new experience for 34-year-old Pedersen, who rode for Peterborough in the Elite League last season.

"I haven't been to Leicester but I have been on YouTube and seen some videos," he said. "It looks great. It looks like a proper speedway track and I am looking forward to it.

"It is always good to come and try a few things at the start of the season and, hopefully, it will also be a great day for Magnus."

The youngest of three racing brothers, Karlsson made a stunning debut for the Lions in July by reeling off five wins against Sheffield. He ended the season as the club's No.1 rider and a firm favourite with the fans.

Karlsson said: "Nicki is a really nice guy off the track, he always comes over and talks. He's easy to talk to and I'm very happy he will be at my meeting."

Karlsson first rode in Britain for Edinburgh in 2002. Since then, he has worn the colours of Wolverhampton and Scunthorpe before moving to Leicester.

It seems that riding for the Lions has given the 30-year-old Swede a new lease of life.

"I haven't enjoyed speedway this much for many years," he said. "I love riding at Leicester and, with the team we have this year, we should be able to move up the table a bit and not be at the bottom!"

Firstly, though, he will be concentrating on his testimonial meeting and said: "I haven't finally decided on the format yet, it will depend on the riders available."

However, the inclusion of Pedersen will be a huge plus and Lions fans can already look forward to seeing him in action in what will be the first official appearance of a Grand Prix world champion at the Beaumont Park track.