Proposed Major Overhaul of EFL Promotion and Relegation Receives Unanimous Support from League
The National League has called on EFL clubs to support a transition to a promotion and relegation system.
All 72 clubs in the National League have collectively signed a letter to EFL officials urging them to endorse a vote among member clubs regarding a shift to a three-up, three-down model between League Two and the fifth tier.
Clubs in the National League contend that the existing model, which allows only one club to gain automatic promotion to the EFL with an additional spot available through the play-offs, is out of sync with the rest of the football structure.
During a meeting last week, which officially supported the “3UP” initiative, clubs across the National League’s three divisions united in favor of the proposal.
EFL leaders have expressed positive sentiments regarding the concept in the past, yet implementing a change would require formal agreement from the clubs, particularly those in League Two who may need more persuasion.
National League chairman Jack Pearce pointed to the upcoming introduction of the Government’s Independent Football Regulator as a reason for the EFL to take action.
Pearce stated: “The Regulator’s stated goals include ensuring financial sustainability, economic resilience, and preserving the sport’s heritage.
“In terms of heritage, National League clubs are integral to towns and cities across the nation, with teams that form the foundation of their local communities.
“Adding an extra promotion slot would provide invaluable hope for these clubs and their supporters, as well as those in the leagues beneath. We can no longer delay achieving equality within the sport.”
Pearce believes that three clubs changing tiers each season would encourage a more dynamic pyramid and enable relegated teams a better chance to “bounce back” into the EFL.
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS
The current top SEVEN teams in the National League standings are former EFL clubs, with an additional six that have previously played in the top four tiers further down the rankings.
He added: “We’ve consistently been told that the EFL supports our 3UP stance in principle but is hesitant to implement any changes while consulting with the IFR and Premier League about their own financial restructuring in football.
“However, we believe that the goals of this campaign are crucial for the overall well-being of the sport and the government’s aims, so it should be prioritized alongside any other issues this year.
“Rick Parry, the EFL Chair, has frequently mentioned that ‘the EFL should look down as well as up,’ and we now hope to see that become a reality.”