Explained in plain English

What is the English Football League?

The English Football League (EFL) runs three professional divisions below the Premier League: the Championship, League One, and League Two. It also organises the League Cup, which England's top clubs compete in. While the FA governs the sport overall, the EFL focuses on these specific competitions and their member clubs, ensuring the smooth running of league football across much of England.

Stories that explain this

Starmer intervened to keep England's pre-match schedule

Questions this opens up

What is the Championship? How do teams get promoted? What is the League Cup?

Related explainers

Who governs English football? How does a football league work? What about different leagues? What are 'add-ons' in football? What is 'aggregate' in football? Why is Brazil a football giant? What is the Champions League? What is a 'coach' in football?

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