Championship

The English Football League Championship, commonly known as the Championship, is the second-highest division in the English football league system, after the Premier League. Established in 2004 following a rebranding of the Football League First Division, it is one of the most competitive and unpredictable leagues in Europe.

The Championship is contested by 24 clubs. Over the course of a season, which runs from August to May, each team plays every other team twice, once at their home stadium and once at the opposition's. One match is held at home and the other away, totaling 46 games. Teams receive three points for a win, one point for a draw, and no points for a loss. The teams are ranked in the league table by points gained, then goal difference, and then goals scored.

At the end of each season, the top two teams, along with the winner of the play-offs between the teams finishing in 3rd–6th position, are promoted to the Premier League. At the other end of the table, the three lowest placed teams are relegated to the English Football League One. The Championship play-off final is considered one of the biggest games in world football, due to the lucrative financial reward of reaching the Premier League.

The Championship has been won by numerous clubs, with Newcastle United, Leicester City, and Wolverhampton Wanderers among the notable winners. It has also been a stepping stone for many players who have gone on to have successful careers in the Premier League and other top European leagues.

The Championship is known for its high levels of competitiveness and unpredictability, with any team capable of beating another. This unpredictability, combined with a high level of talent and the potential for teams to reach the Premier League, makes the Championship one of the most watched secondary leagues in world football.

The league has also seen significant financial investment, with many clubs backed by wealthy owners in an attempt to reach the Premier League. However, this has also led to financial instability for some clubs, highlighting the high-stakes nature of the Championship.

In terms of broadcasting, the Championship has a wide global reach, with games broadcast in many countries. This has helped to increase the profile of the league and its teams, and has contributed to the growing popularity of the Championship around the world.

In conclusion, the English Football League Championship is a highly competitive and exciting league, providing a platform for teams and players to achieve their Premier League dreams. Its mix of unpredictability, talent, and high stakes makes it a must-watch for football fans around the world.