EFL Considers Expanding Championship Play-Offs to Six Teams

The English Football League (EFL) is considering a major change to the Championship play-off format that would expand the number of teams competing from four to six. The proposed system would introduce a new 'eliminator round,' where the fifth-placed team would host the eighth, and the sixth would host the seventh in one-off matches, with winners advancing to two-legged semi-finals against the third and fourth placed teams, culminating in the final at Wembley. This idea, presented by Preston North End chief executive Peter Ridsdale, has received broad support among Championship clubs but faces potential opposition from the Premier League and requires approval from the Football Association. The proposal aims to increase late-season excitement, reduce dead-rubber games, and keep more clubs' promotion hopes alive longer, potentially boosting attendances and revenues. While the EFL is also interested in extending similar changes to League One and Two, they are focusing on the Championship first due to political complexities with the National League. Critics of the proposal, including the Premier League, worry that allowing lower-placed teams into the play-offs could dilute the quality of the Premier League.