Cornwall RLFC withdraw from League One

League One rugby league club Cornwall RLFC has ceased operations with immediate effect due to financial challenges, resulting in their withdrawal from League One.

Founded in 2021, the club was acquired by Cornish businessman Kenny Stone in November. However, Stone has been unable to secure additional investment to sustain the club’s financial future. Initially taking over from a consortium led by Canadian owner Eric Perez, Stone aimed to transition Cornwall RLFC into a community-focused organization.

The team’s final match proved to be their record home defeat—a 78-6 loss to Whitehaven at Penryn.

The announcement comes at a time when financial struggles are also affecting other rugby league clubs, including Super League side Salford, which has experienced player departures and has managed only one victory this season.

A statement on Cornwall RLFC’s official website detailed the efforts made to secure financial stability:

"The club's current ownership group, who gained control of Cornwall RLFC back in November, immediately sought further investment to try and stabilise the club and to grow the game of rugby league in the Duchy, through a professional club," a statement on Cornwall's website read.

"Significant progress was made with potential overseas investors to achieve this although sadly, due the current uncertainties in the United States of America, this has not been possible.

"The club have subsequently explored other avenues to secure required funding, but these have been extensively exhausted, leaving Cornwall RLFC with no option other than to withdraw immediately.

"Cornwall RLFC would like to place on record its thanks to the club's players, coaching staff, officials, sponsors and fans for their unwavering support over the past four years."