Richmond will not field a team in the 2021 VFLW season.

“The impact of the COVID pandemic has been significant and we have had to make the difficult decision not to participate in the next VFLW season,” Richmond Head of Women’s Football, Kate Sheahan said.

“We had a meeting with staff and players last week to inform them of the decision.

“This decision will ensure we can focus our resources and energies on delivering a high-quality AFLW program in 2021 and beyond.

“We are currently considering potential alignment opportunities that would allow our AFLW-listed players to participate in the VFLW competition as required, but those discussions are in the very preliminary stages.”