The English Football League (EFL) has proposed significant changes to the Championship play-off format, which could see an expansion to include six teams. Currently, only four teams compete in the play-offs for promotion to the Premier League, but under the new proposal, the teams finishing seventh and eighth would also join the competition. This alteration aims to increase excitement and competitiveness in the league, allowing for more teams to have a chance at promotion.

The proposal includes an 'eliminator round' similar to the National League play-offs, which would give teams finishing in third and fourth positions an advantage. This new format would require teams to adapt, as it changes the dynamics of the play-offs and could potentially bring more revenue and viewership interest to the Championship. The EFL plans to discuss and potentially vote on this proposal at an extraordinary general meeting scheduled for March 5.

However, the changes have faced criticism from the Premier League, whose executives express concern that expanding the number of teams could dilute the quality of play in the Championship. They worry that the standard of competition may decline and that allowing more teams into the promotion race could create unrest among teams that traditionally aim for a top-four finish. As discussions progress, the outcome could have significant implications for the structure of English football.