Featherstone Rovers have given a first indication of belief that they will be able to take to the field next season following their financial woes.

In an update issued to supporters on social media the club has confirmed that the intention is to take part in the Challenge Cup competition, the draw for which is being made today.

The next step will be to confirm and prove to the rugby league that the Featherstone team will be able to fulfil fixtures in the new look Championship competition in 2026.

League fixtures are being drawn up this week and expected to be made public next week with four scenarios being looked at – a division without Featherstone, a competition without the also financially challenged Salford Red Devils, a league without both these clubs and a Championship in which both take part.

Connor Wynne has left Featherstone Rovers to join Bradford Bulls.

placeholder image — Connor Wynne has left Featherstone Rovers to join Bradford Bulls.

Rovers, meanwhile, have attempted to set out where it stands heading into the 2026 season.

Chairman Mark Campbell and recently appointed chief executive Chris Hamilton have set up a new company called Rovers 2026 Ltd in a bid to rescue the club.

But it is facing a winding-up petition from the HMRC, as well as further debts, including player wages that have not been paid.

There is hope for supporters, however, from the social media statement which read: “Rovers can confirm that the work to update the clubs position in regards to finances continues and will hopefully be concluded soon.

“In addition, we are keen to confirm that the intention behind all of this work is to ensure there is a club next season and whilst this is ongoing we can advise fans that the draws for rounds one and two of the Betfred Challenge Cup (Championship clubs enter in round two) for 2026 will be made and will include Featherstone.

“Whilst our work in the background continues the RFL obviously need to plan for next season and this is the latest stage in that process.

“We hope fans will watch the draw with interest and, as stated before, we will update on the club’s position as soon as we can.”

Rovers are also hoping to play a Christmas friendly against neighbours Castleford Tigers and if they can win their financial fight they will then be looking to undertake the next difficult task to put together a squad good enough to compete on the pitch.

A number of their players from 2025 have moved on to pastures new, the latest being winger Connor Wynne who has joined Super League newcomers Bradford Bulls.