Overview
- Clubs approved the reform at a March 5 general meeting, with a strong majority backing a switch that applies only to the Championship.
- Under the expected model, 5th vs 8th and 6th vs 7th will be one-off eliminators, 3rd and 4th will enter two-legged semi-finals, and the winners will meet at Wembley, with final details to be set later in 2026.
- The expansion creates a possible route to the Premier League for a team finishing eighth and increases the post-season to seven fixtures.
- EFL chief executive Trevor Birch says the move will strengthen the division and keep more clubs and supporters invested late in the season.
- Critics argue the change dilutes sporting merit and adds fixture strain, with figures such as Simon Jordan and Shaun Harvey linking the decision to revenue motives.