The RFL have released a short statement following the news that Halifax Panthers have entered ‘compulsory liquidation’.
The decision was made by the High Court this afternoon following a long-running issue with HMRC, which the club has not been able to resolve. Halifax has officially been wound up then, with the future of the club being plunged into real doubt.
Control of the Panthers has been passed over to receivers, but the club have been keen to stress that the decision does not necessarily mean the end of the famous old club, who were founded in 1873 and have won the Challenge Cup five times.
Talks are set to get underway about how the club will progress then and the RFL have confirmed that the governing body’s board will meet this week to consider their options.
“The RFL is aware of the High Court’s decision surrounding Halifax Panthers,” a statement from the RFL read.
“The Board of the RFL will meet to consider all options this week.
“Our thoughts are with the players, coaches, club staff and fans that will be affected on hearing today’s news.
“A further update will be made in due course.”
Halifax aren’t the only club to have had trouble with HMRC in recent months, of course. Salford Red Devils were officially liquidated in December, with phoenix club Salford RLFC rising from the ashes. Featherstone Rovers chose to enter administration following their winding up petition, while Oldham have also seen a winding up petition issued against them.
The statement from the Panthers read: “Following today’s High Court hearing, Halifax Panthers has been placed into compulsory liquidation.
“We know this news will be very disappointing for our supporters, players, staff and sponsors. The winding-up relates to a long-running dispute with HMRC, and despite efforts to find a solution, we were unable to conclude a deal in time to prevent this outcome.
“As part of this process, the directors are no longer in control of the company, and responsibility now passes to the Official Receiver, who will oversee the company’s affairs and determine the next steps.
“Discussions will now begin around the future of the club. Our focus is on working with all parties to secure the best possible outcome and a sustainable future for Halifax Panthers.
“This is not necessarily the end of the club, and we will provide further updates as soon as we can.
“Thank you for your continued support.
“Halifax Panthers.”
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James
February 10, 2026 at 10:51 am
The RFL will wait until the accident happens, the RFL will issue a statement to show they’re now aware of the situation, the RFL will sympathise with all affected, the RFL will meet in due course, and the RFL will make another statement at that time. This will probably be “Would anyone interested in saving a century plus years old sports club please come forward with the readies?”