The EFL fixture release for the 2026-27 season is underway, with all 72 clubs learning their schedules from 12pm BST. The biggest story is West Ham United's return to the Championship after 15 years in the Premier League, following their relegation last season.
West Ham's Championship Return
The Hammers will face a host of familiar and historic rivals. For the first time in 14 years, they will play Millwall at The Den, reigniting one of English football's fiercest east London derbies. West Ham also face QPR, Charlton Athletic, and Watford. Notably, they will meet Wrexham in a league fixture for the first time since 1981.
West Ham's relegation was confirmed on the final day of the 2025-26 Premier League season, ending a 15-year top-flight stint. Their last Championship campaign was in 2011-12, when they won promotion via the play-offs.
Other Key Storylines
Millwall, who missed out on automatic promotion to the Premier League by just one point last season, will be aiming to go one better under new manager Neil Harris. AFC Wimbledon, meanwhile, will look to climb the League One table after avoiding relegation by four points.
The full fixture list includes all 46 league matches for each club, with the season set to begin in early August 2026. Key dates include the opening weekend, Boxing Day fixtures, and the final day in May 2027.
Fixture Release Process
The EFL announced the schedules simultaneously at 12pm BST, with clubs and fans able to view them on the official EFL website and app. The release follows the Premier League fixture announcement last week, which saw Manchester City open against Arsenal.
According to the EFL, the scheduling process takes into account police requests, travel distances, and broadcast selections to minimize disruption and maximize attendance.
