The 2026/27 Championship is shaping up to be one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory. With three relegated Premier League clubs, ambitious former top-flight sides, newly promoted teams and the introduction of an expanded six-team play-off format, virtually every club enters the campaign believing promotion is within reach.
Some teams are expected to battle simply to avoid relegation, while others have assembled squads capable of challenging for automatic promotion. Financial backing, managerial experience, transfer activity and squad depth will all play huge roles over the coming months.
Here’s our full ranking of every Championship club based on their current chances of winning promotion to the Premier League.
24. Lincoln City
Lincoln’s return to the Championship is a remarkable achievement after decades away from England’s second tier. Survival remains the clear priority, and any promotion challenge would be an enormous surprise.
23. Blackburn Rovers
Financial uncertainty and questions surrounding investment leave Blackburn facing another difficult campaign. Unless significant backing arrives, a play-off push appears unlikely.
22. Charlton Athletic
Charlton successfully re-established themselves in the Championship last season. Building stability is the immediate objective before dreaming about promotion.
21. Bolton Wanderers
Back in the Championship after several years away, Bolton possess momentum and an ambitious fanbase. However, consolidating their place remains the realistic first target.
20. Cardiff City
Cardiff have exciting young players and a new direction, but adapting to Championship demands will likely take time before genuine promotion ambitions become realistic.
19. Portsmouth
John Mousinho has laid encouraging foundations at Fratton Park. With further investment, Pompey could surprise a few teams, although mid-table still feels the most likely destination.
18. Stoke City
After another inconsistent campaign, Stoke must finally translate flashes of quality into sustained performances if they hope to end years of frustration.
17. Preston North End
Preston continue to flirt with the play-off places without quite breaking through. Another solid season is expected, though stronger rivals may edge them out.
16. Watford
Watford remain one of the Championship’s biggest mysteries. Their final position could range anywhere from relegation trouble to a serious play-off challenge.
15. Bristol City
The Robins are searching for stability after an underwhelming campaign. The right managerial appointment could reignite promotion hopes.
14. Swansea City
Positive momentum under their current coaching staff and an exciting attacking core give Swansea outside hopes of challenging for the expanded play-offs.
13. Queens Park Rangers
QPR have invested heavily in young talent. Strengthening defensively could be the final ingredient needed for a genuine top-eight push.
12. West Bromwich Albion
A remarkable defensive turnaround has restored optimism at The Hawthorns. If they improve in attack, promotion is certainly achievable.
11. Sheffield United
Without Premier League parachute payments, financial caution is required. Nevertheless, the Blades still possess enough quality to compete near the play-off positions.
10. Millwall
After narrowly missing out previously, Millwall remain dangerous. Their physical style and consistency make them genuine outsiders for promotion.
9. Norwich City
Norwich finished last season strongly and now have genuine belief. A full campaign under Philippe Clement could see the Canaries return to the Premier League conversation.
8. Birmingham City
Strong financial backing and ambitious ownership ensure Birmingham remain one of the division’s most intriguing clubs heading into the new season.
7. Southampton
Despite beginning the season with a points deduction, Southampton still possess one of the strongest squads in the Championship and remain serious promotion contenders.
6. Derby County
Growing investment and the leadership of John Eustace have transformed expectations at Pride Park. Derby are now viewed as realistic candidates for a top-six finish.
5. Middlesbrough
Kim Hellberg’s exciting football impressed throughout much of last season. Greater squad depth could help Boro maintain their intensity over a full 46-game campaign.
4. Burnley
Burnley’s recent Championship record speaks for itself. Regardless of managerial changes, they remain one of the favourites to bounce straight back to the Premier League.
3. Wrexham
Backed by huge commercial growth and ambitious ownership, Wrexham continue their remarkable rise. Another promotion would complete one of football’s greatest modern stories.
2. West Ham United
Despite suffering relegation, West Ham enter the Championship with one of the division’s strongest squads. If they retain key players and strengthen wisely, the Hammers should challenge for automatic promotion immediately.
1. Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wolves top the rankings thanks to months of preparation for life back in the Championship. Recruitment has already begun, and expectations will be nothing less than an immediate return to the Premier League.
Who Are the Favourites?
Top 10 Promotion Rankings
- 🥇 Wolverhampton Wanderers
- 🥈 West Ham United
- 🥉 Wrexham
- Burnley
- Middlesbrough
- Derby County
- Southampton
- Birmingham City
- Norwich City
- Millwall
The Verdict
The 2026/27 Championship promises drama from the opening weekend. Clubs like Wolves, West Ham and Burnley have the experience and resources to compete for automatic promotion, while ambitious challengers including Wrexham, Middlesbrough, Derby County and Southampton will believe they can upset the favourites.
With six play-off places now available, the race could be more unpredictable than ever, ensuring another unforgettable Championship campaign filled with twists, surprises and late-season drama.
Which clubs do you think will secure promotion to the Premier League? Do you agree with these rankings, or is there a surprise team ready to shock the Championship? Let us know your predictions in the comments below!
