Blackburn Rovers have withdrawn from the Barclays Women’s Super League 2 for the 2025/26 season and intend to apply to join a lower tier.
In a statement on rovers.co.uk, the club said: ‘This decision follows a comprehensive review of the evolving demands placed on second tier clubs, which have become unsustainable under our current model.
‘Over recent years, we have been incredibly proud of the progress made by the Women’s team, both on and off the pitch. However, the growing financial and operational constraints tied to Tier 2 status, including the requirement to move to a fully-professional model, have reached a point where they can no longer be sustained under the club’s current financial framework.
‘Key factors influencing this decision include the significant rise in minimum criteria set by the league, including extended contact hours for players and the requirement for a full-time professional contract model, an increase in staffing levels, leading to further escalating wage costs, and a greater strain on training ground and stadium facilities.
‘Regrettably, despite all Rovers Women’s league fixtures being played at Ewood Park last season for the first time, there was no noticeable upturn in home attendances, resulting in the absence of the substantial matchday commercial revenue and sponsorships required to support continued investment at Tier 2.’
Nikki Doucet, CEO, WSL Football told womensleagues.thefa.com: “We have been working with the club all season to prevent this outcome, and we are disappointed it has come to this. We will do all we can to help provide current players and staff members at the club opportunities, including those at the Professional Game Academy, so they can remain in the women’s game.
“Women’s football is on a journey, and whilst it remains in a financially fragile position, the game is growing and there will be brighter days ahead. We have a long-term strategy to drive more investment and to continue raising standards across the game to ensure players and staff can operate in safe, professional environments.”
While Blackburn will now need to submit an application to the FA to re-enter the Women’s Football Pyramid at a lower level, WSL Football’s intention is to ensure the Barclays WSL2 operates with 12 clubs for the 2025/26 season in adherence with the women’s football pyramid regulations.