The EFL has officially announced the key dates for the 2025/26 season, including the fixture release day, Carabao Cup schedule, Vertu Trophy timeline, and Play-Off finals at Wembley Stadium. Fans can now start planning for another exciting season of football!
As the 2024/25 season nears its conclusion, attention turns to the upcoming campaign. Below is a detailed breakdown of all the essential dates for domestic competitions and league action.
EFL Season Start Dates 2025
The 2025/26 EFL season kicks off in early August. Here are the confirmed start dates for League One, League Two, and the Championship:
League One and League Two Start Dates: Friday 1st August 2025 – Sunday 3rd August 2025
Championship Start Date: Friday 8th August 2025 – Sunday 10th August 2025
Final Games of the Season
League One, League Two, and Championship: Weekend of 2nd/3rd May 2026
These dates mark the beginning and end of what promises to be another thrilling EFL season.
EFL Fixture Release Day 2025
When do EFL fixtures come out for the 2025/26 season? The eagerly awaited fixture release day has been confirmed as:
Date: Thursday 26th June 2025
Time: 9:00 AM
This is when fans will find out their team’s full schedule for League One, League Two, and the Championship. Be sure to mark your calendar!
Carabao Cup Schedule 2025/26
The Carabao Cup returns with exciting knockout action. Here is the full schedule for the competition:
Round One Draw Date: Thursday 26th June 2025
Round One Fixtures: Week starting Monday 11th August 2025
Carabao Cup Final Date: Sunday 22nd March 2026 at Wembley Stadium
Vertu Trophy Schedule 2025/26
The Vertu Trophy continues to grow in prominence as a competitive tournament. Here are the key dates for your diary:
Group Stage Draw Date: Thursday 26th June 2025
Matchday One: Week starting Monday 1st September 2025
Vertu Trophy Final at Wembley: Sunday 12th April 2026
Play-Off Finals at Wembley Stadium (May 2026)
The EFL Play-Off finals are among the most dramatic events in English football. Here are the confirmed dates for all three divisions:
| Competition | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Championship Play-Off Final | Saturday 23rd May 2026 | Wembley Stadium |
| League One Play-Off Final | Sunday 24th May 2026 | Wembley Stadium |
| League Two Play-Off Final | Monday 25th May 2026 | Wembley Stadium |
These matches will decide which teams earn promotion to higher leagues.
EFL League One, League Two and Championship 2025/26 Season FAQs
When do EFL fixtures come out for the 2025/26 season?
EFL fixtures will be released on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 9:00 AM. This includes schedules for League One, League Two, and the Championship.
What are the EFL season start dates for 2025/26?
League One and League Two start on Friday, August 1, through Sunday, August 3, 2025.
The Championship starts a week later on Friday, August 8, through Sunday, August 10, 2025.
When is the Carabao Cup final in March 2026?
The Carabao Cup final will take place on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at Wembley Stadium.
What are the dates for EFL Play-Off finals?
The Play-Off finals are scheduled as follows:
Championship Play-Off: Saturday, May 23, 2026
League One Play-Off: Sunday, May 24, 2026
League Two Play-Off: Monday, May 25, 2026
When is the Vertu Trophy final?
The Vertu Trophy final will be held on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
Where are the Championship/League One/League Two Play-Off Finals held?
Wembley Stadium, London, UK
Updated: 18/06/2025
