Featherstone Rovers have shared an update to their fans about their bid to become RFL members once again ahead of the 2026 season.
Going into administration saw the Championship outfit stripped of their RFL membership, as was the case with Salford Red Devils after their own decision to liquidate.
Since then, Salford have reformed under the moniker RLFC with former player Mason Caton-Brown leading the successful bid that has since seen former captain Ryan Brierley appointed as CEO.
As for Featherstone, they’ve now confirmed that they are still in the process of acquiring RFL membership, meaning as it stands they’re not eligible to compete in the 2026 Championship.
Of course, that is now only 14 days away with Salford hosting Oldham on Friday 15th, January, whilst Featherstone play on the Sunday against Batley Bulldogs.
As part of a New Year’s message, Featherstone Rovers have now updated fans on the club’s situation.
Featherstone Rovers in “dialogue” over RFL membership
In an update shared on the club’s social media, Featherstone confirmed that they don’t yet have membership with the RFL but they did announce that “dialogue has continued throughout the Christmas period”.
The statement read: “The club can confirm that the approval process in respect of the submission for membership remains with the RFL.
“Dialogue has continued throughout the Christmas period to address any issues as all parties work towards a positive outcome.”
The statement concluded with Rovers promising fans updates “as soon as a decision is communicated to us”, as well as a Happy New Year message.
Whilst other Championship sides have confirmed squad numbers and new shirts, Featherstone have been unable to do any of that with Rovers head coach Paul Cooke even speaking out about the situation.
Posting on social media in December, he said: “I’m not sure where I’m at, I’m not sure where any of the staff are at and I’m not sure where the players are at.
“I do believe Featherstone Rovers will be around in 2026, I do think they will make the start line. But, with what team I’m not sure, and when they’re going to start training and who’s going to coach the team.”
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— Featherstone Rovers (@FevRoversRLFC) December 31, 2025
