What the competition is
The EFL’s March 2026 announcement says Championship play-offs expand from four to six teams for 2026/27. This matters because an older overview may still describe only teams placed third to sixth. The announcement also distinguishes the new eliminator ties, two-leg semi-finals and Wembley final, while noting that final format details would be agreed later in 2026. It is safer to use the current season’s published bracket than to carry an old qualification cut-off forward.
Following the competition
When the league phase ends, a club’s next fixture can have a very different consequence from an ordinary league match. Record whether the listing is an eliminator, semi-final leg or final. A first-leg result may leave the tie open; an eliminator can end a promotion challenge immediately. Keep those stage labels visible when following several English divisions.
| Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Division | English second-tier league football. |
| Promotion | Automatic promotion and play-offs are different routes. |
| 2026/27 change | EFL announced a six-team Championship play-off field. |
| Source conflict | Older four-team explainers must not override the newer announcement. |
Questions about this guide
Can I reuse an old four-team play-off chart for 2026/27?
No. Check the EFL’s current-season rules and bracket following its expansion announcement.
Is the play-off final an ordinary league round?
No. It decides the separate play-off promotion route.