Professional rugby league club Oldham RLFC is facing a severe threat to its future after being issued with a winding-up petition by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
High Court Action Over Unpaid Debts
The British tax authority filed the formal legal action against Oldham Rugby League Football Club 1876 on Tuesday 16 December 2025. The petition, lodged in the High Court, is a step towards compulsory liquidation due to outstanding debts.
This marks the first time the historic club, known as the Roughyeds, has appeared in the High Court system. A winding-up petition is a serious legal instrument typically used by HMRC for unpaid tax bills.
Sporting Success Amid Financial Turmoil
The financial blow comes despite a relatively successful season on the pitch for the Championship side. Oldham finished the 2025 rugby league season in 4th place in the second-tier league. Their campaign ended with a 4-40 defeat to the Halifax Panthers in the play-off Eliminators.
The club's off-field crisis follows the dramatic collapse of Super League neighbours Salford Red Devils earlier in December. That club's 152-year existence ended amid reported debts of £4 million.
A Wider Crisis for the Sport?
The situation at Oldham raises further concerns about the financial health of rugby league clubs. Salford's liquidation in early December sent shockwaves through the sport.
City AM revealed in May 2025 that Salford had also faced HMRC legal action over unpaid bills. The club's demise has prompted rescue efforts, with former player Mason Caton-Brown submitting a six-figure bid to buy the club. Two other separate takeover briefs are also on the table, with a decision expected soon in the hope of forming a new club to compete in the Championship next year.
When approached for comment regarding its own winding-up petition, Oldham RLFC did not immediately respond.
