England’s second tier and one of the toughest leagues in world football — 24 clubs, a relentless 46-game season, and the richest play-off final in the sport. London regularly fields multiple clubs at once.
The EFL Championship is the second tier of English football, sitting directly below the Premier League. Twenty-four clubs compete across a 46-game season — more matches than any major European league — followed by play-offs to decide the final promotion place.
Promotion to the Premier League is widely considered the most financially valuable prize in football. The intensity, congested fixture list and lack of a winter break make the Championship one of the most physically demanding divisions anywhere in the game.
⚡ The richest game in football
The Championship play-off final, held at Wembley Stadium, is frequently described as the richest single match in world football due to the financial uplift that follows promotion to the Premier League.
West Ham’s relegation means their first meeting with Millwall since 2012 — one of English football’s most bitter rivalries, reignited in the Championship this season.
Tickets & Matchday Demand
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Better value than the Premier League
Championship tickets are significantly more accessible than top-flight pricing, with smaller, more traditional grounds putting fans closer to the pitch.
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Demand spikes around derbies and play-offs
London derbies and matches with promotion implications sell out fastest — book early for fixtures between any of the four London clubs.
Matchday Experience
Championship grounds tend to be smaller and older than Premier League stadiums, which means a louder, more intense atmosphere and far less distance between fans and the pitch. Expect a rawer, more traditional matchday than top-flight football — and a fixture list dense enough that there’s almost always a London Championship match on somewhere most weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which London clubs play in the Championship?
West Ham United, Millwall, Queens Park Rangers and Charlton Athletic — the division’s London representation can change each season via promotion and relegation.
How does Championship promotion work?
The top two clubs are promoted automatically. Third to sixth place (recently expanded from four to six teams) contest the play-offs, with the winner taking the third promotion spot via a final at Wembley Stadium.
Are Championship tickets easy to get?
Generally yes, and considerably easier than Premier League tickets — except for London derbies and play-off fixtures, which sell out quickly.