WORCESTER Warriors have lodged a bid to re-join professional rugby.

And bosses have revealed significant progress is being made to bring the women's sport back to the city.

The club has now submitted a bid to join the mooted new Tier 2 league of professional rugby next season.

Plans for a possible return for women's rugby in Worcester are at an advanced stage, according to a statement released by the club today (Friday, October 11).

The statement also thanked the exceptional support they received during a challenging period in the club's history.

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The spokesperson added: "Following a challenging period for all players, staff, supporters and partners involved with Worcester Warriors, we can confirm that we have formally entered the process to bring Rugby back to Sixways.  

"Whilst it has clearly been a difficult period for everybody associated with the club, we are fully committed to bringing a high-quality Rugby product back to Worcester. 

"The support we have received from former players, the business community and the fanbase has been exceptional.

"The facilities at Sixways have supported elite rugby since they were built, and under new management, they have become the in-demand destination for conferences, events and a multitude of sporting activities. 

"Naturally, we respect the process that the RFU has laid out and will update you on our new website as and when we have more information on progress. 

"In the meantime, we will be hosting service and legend rugby matches from early 2025 and we are at an advanced stage with a possible return for Women's Rugby in Worcester, which forms an important part of our Rugby strategy going forward."

Worcester has been without elite-level rugby since the Warriors collapsed into administration in 2022. 

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In April, Junction 6 Limited, led by Wasps owner Chris Holland, bought the Warriors after Atlas went into administration. 

Last month, the new owners revealed ambitious plans to develop Sixways in an attempt to avoid past mistakes. 

The plans, submitted to Wychavon District Council for approval, would see two stands demolished and rebuilt.

If approved, there would also be a new 120-bed hotel, as well as a sports rehabilitation accommodation, a multistorey car park, a golf driving range a solar farm and a sports pitch.