Halifax Panthers will no longer compete in the 2026 Championship season after their RFL membership has been revoked.
The news comes after the club’s compulsory liquidation on Monday, whereby the directors no longer control the club and the Official Receiver will now take authority.
The Panthers become the third club since December to be forced into liquidation, following Salford Red Devils’ demise in 2025 and the folding of Featherstone Rovers two months ago.
As a result, interim RFL CEO Abi Ekoku and his governing body have been forced into the decision in order to preserve “professional rugby league in the town” as they work with the club to try and find a solution.
What this means is that Fax’s place in the Championship will be taken away, and any future competition matches, including the club’s home tie with Sheffield Eagles on Sunday, will no longer go ahead.
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RFL release statement on Halifax Panthers
The RFL are yet to confirm what will happen in terms of league structure and position, given that two clubs – Batley and Doncaster, have already played Fax, whilst the rest of the division have not.
An statement by the governing body, released on Wednesday afternoon, reads:
“The Rugby Football League can confirm that Halifax Panthers have today had their membership revoked.
“The club was placed into compulsory liquidation in a High Court hearing on Monday.
“The RFL is committed to preserving professional rugby league in the town and will continue working with interested parties to fulfil this.”
Sheffield Eagles have since confirmed that their scheduled fixture for Sunday against Halifax has been ‘postponed’ with plans and updates to be revealed when they find out more information.
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— Rugby Football League (@TheRFL) February 11, 2026
