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EFL Sets March Vote on Expanding Championship Play-Offs to Six Teams

A March 5 ballot will gauge support for a six-team format designed to add single-leg eliminators and keep more clubs in contention late in the season.

Overview

  • Under the proposal, fifth would host eighth and sixth would host seventh in one-off eliminators, with winners meeting the third- and fourth-placed sides in two-legged semi-finals before a Wembley final.
  • The Football Association board has approved holding the vote, while the Premier League has voiced reservations about a potential drop in the quality of promoted teams.
  • To pass, the change needs simple majorities of both 13 of 24 Championship clubs and 37 of the 72 EFL clubs overall.
  • If approved, the expanded play-offs are expected to be introduced in the 2026/27 season.
  • Supporters, including many clubs and broadcast partner Sky Sports, argue the shift would reduce late-season dead rubbers and boost engagement, with similar reforms potentially considered for lower divisions.