From survival to belief as Rochdale AFC look ahead to 2026

Wednesday, 24 December 2025 12:36

By David Murphy

Just over 18 months ago, the future of Rochdale AFC looked bleak, with the club facing an uncertain existence after years of instability both on and off the pitch.

Now, as Christmas approaches, the picture could hardly be more different.

Rochdale go into the festive period sitting top of the National League table, with three games in hand on second placed Forest Green Rovers. Under new ownership and a reshaped management structure, confidence has returned to the Crown Oil Arena, where a major pitch replacement is also nearing completion.

Co chairman Simon Gauge used a Christmas message shared on the club’s Facebook page to thank supporters, staff and everyone connected with the club, describing it as a special moment for fans after years of difficulty.

He said it was a time to enjoy the league position while also looking ahead to 2026 with excitement about what the current squad could achieve. He stressed that despite losses shown in the most recent accounts, the club was not attempting to buy success, adding that the playing budget sat roughly between fifth and seventh in the division.

According to Mr Gauge, the progress now being seen is the result of three seasons of careful planning, stability and measured recruitment, alongside significant work away from the pitch.

He highlighted investment in professional structures across the club, including fan liaison, safeguarding, finance, commercial operations, media coverage and ticketing, saying Rochdale are now equipped to operate at a higher level than their current league position.

Support from fans was also praised, with attendances continuing to rise and matchday atmosphere described as a key factor in strong home form. Mr Gauge said the positive environment inside the ground would be crucial during what he acknowledged will be a challenging run in to the end of the season.

The long awaited pitch replacement at the Crown Oil Arena was also addressed. The initial surface, currently being installed after repeated drainage issues, is expected to last around five years, followed by a stitched pitch with a lifespan of up to 15 years. Mr Gauge said the new surface would remove the daily uncertainty caused by poor weather and provide players with the standard of pitch their football deserves.

He reserved particular praise for the Ogden family, whose investment, business expertise and involvement were described as vital to the club’s survival. Mr Gauge said without their backing, the pitch issues alone could have threatened Rochdale’s existence following a recent abandonment.

Fans responding to the message were quick to echo that sentiment, praising both the Ogden family and Mr Gauge for steering the club through its most turbulent period. Several supporters spoke of renewed unity between the board, players and fanbase, with optimism not seen for decades.

On the pitch, attention now turns to Boxing Day, when Rochdale travel to Morecambe, before a home fixture against Hartlepool United on 30 December is staged at Accrington Stanley’s Wham Stadium while pitch works continue.