Blackburn Rovers withdraw from WSL2

Blackburn Rovers have pulled out of WSL2 and they will no longer operate as a full-time professional women’s team.

The Lancashire club revealed the news via a post on their official club website this evening.

Rovers were promoted to English football’s second tier in 2019 and they have operated at that level ever since. Despite having one of the lesser budgets in the league, the club have continuously defied the odds on the pitch, keeping clear of relegation trouble.

Blackburn Rovers have today confirmed that a review of their women’s football operations has taken place and a decision has been made to remove the club from the women’s elite game. Blackburn Rovers say that the decision has been made due to increasing Tier 2 licensing demands no longer fitting within their operational framework. The club have also said that a lack of increased matchday revenue has contributed to the move with Ewood Park attendances remaining at a consistent base level.

As a result of today’s decision, Blackburn Rovers will re-enter the footballing pyramid at a lower semi-professional level. Talks regarding their re-entry are currently ongoing with The Football Association.

Following today’s move, it is understood that The Football Association are likely to add a 12th club to next season’s WSL2. Sheffield United may be handed a reprieve following this season’s relegation.

About The Author

Daniel Pentland

I am the editor and owner of the WSL Full-Time brand which I launched in 2018.

I am an accredited journalist with the FWA, SJA and AIPS. I have reported from various levels of men’s and women’s elite football since 2016.