Rovers return backed by rivals Hunslet RLFC: unique season ticket offer for Featherstone fans
A rival club are urging Featherstone fans to lend their support this year and boost hopes of a Rovers’ return in 2026.
Featherstone have been excluded from this season’s Betfred Championship after going into administration last month. Though a takeover bid was submitted, it was rejected by the RFL because of close links with the previous owners.
RFL interim-chief executive Abi Ekoku this week confirmed there have been “parties interested in wanting to take up the Featherstone membership for next season” and insisted he has no doubt Rovers will be back in the 2027 Championship. Hunslet were due to play host to Featherstone on Sunday, February 1, with the return in August.
Now the supporter-owned south Leeds club are hoping Rovers fans will stay in touch with the sport by watching them this year. Hunslet, who kick off their campaign at home to Dewsbury Rams on Sunday, have launched a Rovers Return season ticket for Featherstone fans. Passes cost £180 and donations from that will be made to Rovers, or the club’s Foundation, at the end of the year.
Hunslet chief executive Neil Hampshire said: “It has been fantastic to hear that, since the announcement from the RFL, several individuals have now gone on record to say they intend to do everything they can to ensure Fev are back in the Championship in 2027, including local councillors.
“I’ve also been contacted for information about the potential for a supporter-ownership model and am only too happy to be providing assistance. I’m sure if all of these parties can work together collectively, then that will allow them to build the strongest possible business case for the Rovers’ return.”
He added: “Fev not playing in 2026 is devastating for everyone in the game and our thoughts are with the employees, players, coaching staff and the loyal fans. To try and help further, we are now creating a specific Rovers Return season ticket for 2026 with 50 per cent of the income being ring fenced to pass on to any successful, full or part supporter-ownership bid.
“If that doesn’t materialise, then we will commit to donating the funds to the Featherstone Rovers Foundation at the end of the season. We would absolutely love for Fev fans to come and watch Championship Rugby in 2026 here at Hunslet, while at the same time knowing they are generating funds for the Rovers Return.”