League One playoffs 2026: Everything you need to know

Stockport County FC v Bolton Wanderers - Sky Bet League One

All you need to know about the race for promotion to the Championship from League One.

The League One playoffs remain one of the most intense and emotionally charged events in the English Football League season, offering clubs one final route to the Championship.

The 2026 edition is shaping up to be just as thrilling, with four sides soon to be confirmed to battle through the knockout phase for a coveted place in England’s second tier.

Below, we outline everything you need to know about the 2026 League One playoffs, including the format, fixtures, key dates and how to watch the action live.   

The League One playoffs determine which club earns the third and final promotion place to the Championship. While the top two teams in the table are automatically promoted, those finishing 3rd to 6th compete in the playoffs. 

The format features two-legged semi-finals - 3rd vs 6th and 4th vs 5th - before the winners meet in a one-off final at Wembley Stadium. The victor secures elevation to the Championship for the 2026/27 season.

The teams finishing between third and sixth place in the 2025-26 League One table will enter the playoffs. This section will be updated once the final standings are confirmed.

Last updated: Apr 29, 2026

The 2026 League One playoffs will take place on May 9, 13 and 14, with two-legged semi-finals on those dates followed by a final at Wembley Stadium on May 24.

The 2026 League One playoff final will once again be held at the iconic Wembley Stadium. Traditionally staged over the late May Bank Holiday weekend, the final is expected to take place in the final week of May, with kick-off time to be announced.

Sky Sports holds the broadcast rights to EFL competitions in the UK, meaning fans can watch every playoff match live on Sky Sports Football/Main Event or via the Sky GO app.

CBS and Paramount+ will broadcast the playoffs live in the United States.

Charlton Athletic claimed victory in the 2025 League One playoffs, edging past Leyton Orient 1–0 in the final at Wembley. Their triumph sealed a long-awaited return to the Championship and capped off a resilient postseason run.

The League One playoffs continue to deliver drama, tension and defining moments - expect more of the same in 2026 as the campaign reaches its climax.

The League One playoffs in 2026 promise thrilling fixtures as teams battle for promotion and glory. For football fans eager to add an extra layer of excitement to these pivotal matches, leveraging the best betting apps could provide a significant advantage. These apps bring convenience and comprehensive betting markets to users, allowing for strategic engagement with the playoffs, where insights and quick access to odds can make all the difference in your wagering experience.