What Is England’s Second League Called?
England’s rich football history is defined by a deep league system, competitive matches, and fervent fans. While the Premier League often grabs the global spotlight, its second-tier league, known as the EFL Championship, is equally exciting and critical to English football. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of the Championship, how it fits into the English Football League (EFL) structure, and why it’s a vital part of the football ecosystem.
What Is the EFL Championship?
The EFL Championship, often referred to simply as the Championship, is the second-highest tier in the English football pyramid. It sits directly below the Premier League and serves as the gateway for promotion to England’s top-flight football.
Key Facts About the Championship
- Founded: 2004, following a rebrand of the Football League First Division.
- Number of Teams: 24.
- Promotion to Premier League: The top two teams earn automatic promotion, while the next four compete in playoffs for the third promotion spot.
- Relegation: The bottom three teams are relegated to League One (the third tier).
The Championship is known for its unpredictability, with any team capable of beating another on their day. It’s often considered one of the most challenging and competitive leagues in Europe.
History of England’s Second League
Origins
The second tier of English football dates back to 1892 with the formation of the Football League Second Division. Over time, it evolved through several name changes:
- Second Division (1892–1992): The original name for England’s second tier.
- First Division (1992–2004): Renamed after the creation of the Premier League, which became the new top division.
- EFL Championship (2004–Present): Adopted as part of the Football League’s rebranding efforts.
The Rebranding to the Championship
The rebranding to the Championship was more than just a name change; it signaled a push to elevate the profile of the second tier. With increased broadcasting deals, higher attendance, and global visibility, the Championship has become a lucrative and fiercely contested competition.
How the Championship Fits Into English Football
The English Football League (EFL) Pyramid
The EFL consists of three tiers:
- Championship (2nd Tier)
- League One (3rd Tier)
- League Two (4th Tier)
Teams can move up or down between these divisions based on their performance each season, with promotion and relegation being key features of the system.
Promotion to the Premier League
The Championship is the primary route to the Premier League, which significantly increases a club’s revenue through broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and global exposure. The stakes are high, as promotion is often worth over £100 million to a club.
Why Is the EFL Championship So Competitive?
The Championship is often described as one of the toughest leagues in the world. Here’s why:
1. Financial Parity
Unlike the Premier League, where top clubs dominate financially, the Championship has more evenly distributed resources. This creates a level playing field where any team can challenge for promotion.
2. Volume of Matches
With 24 teams, the Championship season consists of 46 matches per team—far more than the Premier League. This grueling schedule tests the depth and endurance of every squad.
3. Relegated Premier League Teams
Each season, three teams drop down from the Premier League, often bringing higher-quality players and resources. However, their success in the Championship isn’t guaranteed, as adjusting to the league’s physicality and schedule can be challenging.
Notable Clubs in the Championship
Many clubs with rich histories, loyal fanbases, and memorable Premier League runs have graced the Championship. These include:
- Leeds United: Spent over a decade in the Championship before earning promotion in 2020.
- Nottingham Forest: Two-time European Cup winners who battled in the Championship for years before returning to the Premier League in 2022.
- Sunderland: A historic club that has oscillated between divisions, including a stint in League One.
The Championship is often seen as a proving ground for clubs aspiring to regain or secure their place among English football’s elite.
Broadcasting and Global Appeal
The Championship has grown in global popularity, with matches broadcast in over 150 countries. Notable broadcasting partners include:
- Sky Sports (UK): The primary broadcaster for Championship matches.
- ESPN+ (U.S.): Offers live streaming for fans across the Atlantic.
- beIN Sports (Global): Covers matches in the Middle East, Asia, and parts of Europe.
The league’s unpredictability, passionate fanbases, and dramatic playoff finals contribute to its international appeal.
The Championship Playoffs: A High-Stakes Battle
One of the most exciting aspects of the Championship is the playoff system. The teams finishing 3rd to 6th compete in a knockout format, with the winner earning the final promotion spot to the Premier League.
Why the Playoffs Are Special
- The playoff final, held at Wembley Stadium, is often dubbed “the richest game in football” due to the financial windfall of Premier League promotion.
- The single-elimination format creates high drama and unforgettable moments.
How to Watch the EFL Championship
If you’re keen to follow the Championship, here’s how you can tune in:
- In the UK: Sky Sports offers comprehensive coverage, while some matches are available free-to-air.
- In the U.S.: ESPN+ provides live streaming of most games.
- Streaming Options: Platforms like the EFL’s iFollow service allow fans to watch matches online for a subscription fee.
EFL Championship vs. Premier League: Key Differences
While both leagues are highly competitive, there are notable differences:
- Quality of Play: The Premier League attracts the best global talent, while the Championship features more domestic players.
- Financial Power: The Premier League’s revenue dwarfs that of the Championship, though the latter has grown significantly.
- Style of Play: The Championship is often more physical and unpredictable compared to the Premier League’s technical finesse.
Conclusion
The EFL Championship, England’s second league, is much more than a stepping stone to the Premier League. Its rich history, competitive nature, and passionate fanbase make it a vital part of English football. For fans seeking drama, unpredictability, and raw footballing passion, the Championship delivers it all.
Whether you’re a die-hard supporter of a specific club or a casual football enthusiast, the Championship offers a unique experience that rivals the world’s best leagues.
See Also: Is AFL Called Footy?
