Forest Green Rovers has announced the dissolution of its women's team ahead of the 2026-27 season. The club stated the decision was made to 'concentrate resources and efforts on strengthening the Club and achieving that goal' of returning to the English Football League (EFL).
The Gloucestershire-based club, owned by renewable energy entrepreneur Dale Vince and managed by Robbie Savage, currently competes in the National League. Forest Green Rovers aims to regain its League Two status after being relegated in 2024. Last season, under Savage's management, the men's team reached the playoffs but failed to secure promotion.
A club spokesman indicated that discussions with Hartpury University regarding a potential partnership for the women's team had fallen through after the university made a decision that precluded a joint team. Consequently, Forest Green Rovers will also withdraw from its joint involvement with Hartpury's elite training center for girls aged nine to 16.
"Our partnership with Hartpury has been worthwhile and valued, we’ll continue to support them as they explore ways to take the programme forward through Hartpury Women FC," the spokesman said. The club expressed a desire to return to women's football in the future when a sustainable and successful program could be established.
The Football Association (FA) had already confirmed Forest Green Women's allocation into tier five for the upcoming season, but the team will not participate.
Dale Vince, who made his fortune in renewable energy, became a major shareholder in Forest Green Rovers in 2010. During his ownership, the club has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives, including a ban on red meat sales at the stadium and the use of kits made from recycled materials.
The club thanked the players, staff, volunteers, and supporters of the women's program for their contributions and wished them success in the future.