Former Blackburn Rovers players have expressed their shock and disappointment following the club's sudden withdrawal from Women's Super League 2 (WSL2) ahead of the 2025-26 season. The decision, driven by the owners' unwillingness to meet league requirements on facilities, staffing, and player welfare, has left many players and fans reeling.

Rio Hardy's Reaction

Bristol City striker Rio Hardy, who began her career at Blackburn in 2013, shared her astonishment at the club's decline. "It's a real disappointment. I owe a lot to Blackburn, and it was a great club," Hardy told BBC Sport at a WSL2 media day. "I have some friends from there now at different clubs, and we're shocked – you don't expect this would happen any more."

Hardy reflected on the club's past glories, noting that while Blackburn appeared strong from the outside, internal struggles painted a different picture. "They played at Ewood Park. It looked good from the outside looking in, but it's a different story when it comes out," she said. "It shows teams what will happen if they don't back the women's team, and hopefully, a lesson is learned."

Hannah Coan's Perspective

Portsmouth defender Hannah Coan, who also started her career at Blackburn, echoed Hardy's sentiments. Coan, who won Blackburn's young player of the year award for the 2023-24 season, expressed her concern for injured players now facing uncertain futures. "The league is trying to grow, and seeing things like that, I'm gutted for the club," Coan told BBC Sport.

Coan highlighted the fragility of women's football despite recent successes, such as England's consecutive European titles. "You look at the summer the Lionesses had. That does build women's football, but you have to look at these other clubs and bring them up to the level," she said.

Fran Stenson's Hopes for the Future

Southampton goalkeeper Fran Stenson, who had a loan spell at Blackburn earlier in her career, expressed hope that such withdrawals would not happen again. "Hopefully, this never happens to a team again. You see all the investment in the league so hopefully it doesn't happen," Stenson said. "I was surprised. My time at Blackburn was good – they set me up and gave me playing time, I'm very grateful. I don't wish what happened on anyone."

Sheffield United's Second Chance

Blackburn's withdrawal provided a reprieve for Sheffield United, who finished bottom of the Women's Championship in the 2024-25 season. The Blades were reinstated to WSL2, with goalkeeper Sian Rogers expressing gratitude for the second opportunity. "It wasn't uncertain. The club reassured us we would be in a positive place and would look like a full-time club," Rogers told BBC Sport. "That reassured a lot of people. Nothing was going to change."

Rogers emphasized the importance of having the club's full support, noting that it was crucial for the team's morale and future success. "Having that backing is massive. Knowing you don't just have your team but the men's team behind you, which pushes the women's game even further. We want to leave the game in a better place than we found it," she said.

Conclusion

Blackburn's withdrawal from WSL2 serves as a stark reminder of the challenges still facing women's football. While the sport continues to grow and professionalize, the need for consistent financial support and investment remains critical to ensure the stability and success of clubs at all levels.