Halifax regain RFL membership after liquidation
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The Rugby Football League has granted membership to a new Halifax Panthers club which will take over the former club's participation in the second-tier Championship this season.
The Panthers lost their RFL membership as a result of going into liquidation in February over unpaid debts to His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
The 153-year-old club will now return to action, however a 12-point deduction will be applied for this season with the club now under new ownership.
"We understand the trauma to players, staff and fans in recent weeks; but remained hopeful that the club would have a chance of survival," RFL interim chief executive Abi Ekoku said.
"That has proved to be the case, primarily down to an exceptional community, corporate and political effort.
"We wish them well for the rest of the competition and will continue to support them in that endeavour."
The old club's downfall led to fixtures against Sheffield Eagles and Barrow Raiders being unfulfilled, however the new club "will ensure those missed games are now undertaken on dates to be decided", the RFL added.
Halifax, who were champions and Challenge Cup winners in consecutive seasons in the 1980s, had been coached by former England rugby union international Kyle Eastmond prior to their demise.
Martyn Buchan, a local businessman who led negotiations for the new club, said: "It's a great relief that Halifax Panthers will participate in 2026 to continue their 153-year membership of the Rugby Football League.
"Thanks to all the invested staff, sponsors, the governing body and the Calderdale Council who have helped make it possible for this to happen.
"The RFL has been really supportive in getting us to this stage and now, over this next period of time, we'll be focusing on simplifying our model and doing more in the community for the good of rugby league in Halifax."
