1936 Individual Speedway World Championship

One of the favourites Jack Parker had a broken hand injury and was unable to compete in the final.

Van Praag defeated England's Eric Langton in a runoff to be declared the inaugural Speedway World Champion.

However, Van Praag stated he did not want to win the title by default and insisted that a race should take place.

[10] Afterwards, controversial allegations were abound that the two riders had 'fixed' the match race, deciding between them that the first person to the first bend would win the race and the Championship and split the prize money; Langton led into the first bend but was overtaken by Van Praag.

[10] Van Praag reportedly paid Langton £50 "conscience money" after the race for going back on the agreement.