English Football League (EFL) member clubs have officially agreed to changes to the Championship playoff format, which will increase the number of teams from four to six.
The six teams will compete for the one remaining Premier League spot. The decision was taken at an EFL general meeting and will come into effect from the 2026/27 season.
The changes aim to increase the number of competitive matches in the final stages of the season, while also giving two additional clubs the opportunity to compete for a playoff final at Wembley Stadium for promotion to the Premier League.
EFL CEO Trevor Birch said the playoffs had been one of the most exciting moments in the English football calendar since they were first introduced in the 1986/87 season.
"Since its introduction in 1986/87, the playoffs have been a highlight of the domestic football calendar, providing the drama, tension and risk that make EFL competitions so special," Birch said, as quoted on the EFL's official website.
He added that this format change was the result of lengthy discussions with various related parties.
