Reading withdraw women’s side from Ch’ship

Reading have withdrawn their team from the Barclays Women’s Championship ahead of the upcoming season, with the side set to enter tier five of the women’s football pyramid, the club confirmed on Sunday.

The club said the inability to meet the league’s criteria and a lack of investment was the reason behind the decision.

“To continue to operate at Barclays Women’s Championship level, the club requires further ownership cash injection to build a squad capable of competing and to meet the revised mandatory criteria ahead of the 2024-25 season,” the club said.

“This would have included returning to a full-time training model as well as further investments in facilities and personnel.

“Whilst these requirements are in-line with the exponential growth of the women’s game — it is widely accepted that a direct financial return on annual investment is not expected for at least five years.

“Unfortunately, given the current economic realities of the Club, the outlay required to reach these levels are just not possible without significant owner funding.”

The Football Association (FA) also acknowledged the move on Sunday and confirmed they would assist Reading with the transition.

“The FA and the Women’s Professional Game will continue to work with Reading FC Women during this transition period and will now focus on providing support to players and staff at the club to ensure that they can continue to play and work in the women’s game,” an FA statement said.

“This includes supporting players and staff at Reading’s Girls Professional Game Academy [PGA], who will also be impacted by the club’s decision.”

The FA also confirmed that the Championship will only have 11 teams next season with one relegation place.