Featherstone Rovers administrator breaks silence on RFL decision and next steps

Featherstone Rovers have released a statement after seeing their application for RFL membership turned down on Friday evening.

The governing body’s decision ensures that Featherstone will not compete in the 2026 Championship season with the club now staring at what is a very uncertain future.

Featherstone have been in administration since last month and amid the uncertainty, one interested party emerged in an attempt to take them into the new season and breathe life into the club.

However, the submission did not meet the required governance criteria and that left the governing body with no choice but to reject their application for a membership.

The RFL were keen to stress that they remain committed to the supporting the sustainable return of professional rugby league in the town in 2027 but in what guise remains to be seen. What we know for certain right now is that there will be no Featherstone Rovers in the 2026 Championship.

Following the news, the club’s administrators released a short statement on social media to express their disappointment and underline their intention to find a new suitor to take the club on for next year.

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“We can confirm the sad and disappointing decision made by the RFL to reject the sole bid for a Featherstone Rovers Club to take part in the 2026 season,” the statement from administrator Andrew Rosler read.

“This followed a substantial amount of time and effort given by all parties.

“We will endeavour to seek out and engage with any interested parties to secure a future of the club.”

Featherstone were due to travel to Batley Bulldogs in the opening round of the Championship next week but the table will now be settled by win percentage.