The EFL Championship: A Thrilling Division in English Football
The English Football League Championship, commonly known as the Championship, is the second tier of the English football league system. It is contested by 24 teams, who play each other twice during the season, once at home and once away. The top two teams are automatically promoted to the Premier League, while the third-placed team enters a play-off with the teams finishing 4th through 6th to determine the third and final promotion spot. The bottom three teams are relegated to League One.
The Championship is considered one of the most competitive leagues in the world, with a number of former Premier League clubs and ambitious Football League clubs vying for promotion. The division has produced some of the most exciting and memorable matches in recent seasons, with dramatic twists and turns at every turn.
History of the Championship
The Championship was formed in 1892 as the Football League Second Division. It was originally contested by 12 teams, but the number of teams has gradually increased over the years to the current 24. The league's name was changed to the Football League Championship in 2004 as part of a rebranding by the Football League.
Teams in the Championship
The Championship is home to a number of famous and historic clubs, including former Premier League champions such as Leeds United, Sheffield Wednesday, and Sunderland. Other notable clubs in the division include Birmingham City, Bristol City, Cardiff City, and Norwich City.
Format of the Championship
The Championship season runs from August to May. Each team plays 46 matches, with 23 home matches and 23 away matches. The top two teams are automatically promoted to the Premier League, while the third-placed team enters a play-off with the teams finishing 4th through 6th to determine the third and final promotion spot. The bottom three teams are relegated to League One.
Current Standings in the Championship
The current standings in the Championship can be found on the EFL website. Click on the banner below to be directed to the official EFL website for the latest standings, fixtures, and results.
EFL Website
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Play-Offs in the Championship
The Championship play-offs are a single-elimination tournament that determines the third and final promotion spot to the Premier League. The teams finishing 3rd through 6th enter the play-offs, with the 3rd-placed team facing the 6th-placed team and the 4th-placed team facing the 5th-placed team. The semi-finals are played over two legs, with the winners advancing to the final. The final is played at Wembley Stadium in London and is one of the most eagerly anticipated matches in the English football calendar.
Recent Winners of the Championship
- 2022/23: Burnley
- 2021/22: Fulham
- 2020/21: Norwich City
- 2019/20: Leeds United
- 2018/19: Norwich City
Famous Players in the Championship
The Championship has been home to some of the most famous and talented players in English football history. Some of the most notable players to have played in the division include:
- George Best
- Eric Cantona
- David Beckham
- Thierry Henry
- Alan Shearer
- Wayne Rooney
Conclusion
The EFL Championship is a thrilling and competitive division that provides a platform for some of the most talented players and teams in English football. The division's unique blend of established clubs, ambitious underdogs, and exciting football makes it a must-watch for fans of the beautiful game. Visit the EFL website today to find out more about the Championship, its teams, and its stars.
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