The EFL Championship, England’s second tier of professional football, is one of the most competitive leagues in Europe. While promotion to the Premier League is every club’s dream, many teams find themselves locked in long spells in the Championship — fighting for promotion or battling to avoid relegation.
Longest-Serving Clubs in the Championship (2024–25 Season)
As of the current 2024–25 season, Bristol City, Queens Park Rangers (QPR), and Preston North End share the title for the longest ongoing stay in the Championship, each having completed 10 consecutive seasons in the league.
• Bristol City: Promoted in 2014, the Robins have built a reputation for steady performances while continuing to chase their return to top-flight football.
• Queens Park Rangers (QPR): Relegated from the Premier League in 2015, QPR have since remained competitive in the Championship without breaking back into the top tier.
• Preston North End: Since earning promotion in 2015, Preston has consistently remained a strong mid-table side with occasional playoff pushes.
Other Notable Long-Term Championship Clubs
• Millwall – 8 consecutive seasons since promotion in 2017
• Middlesbrough – 8 seasons after relegation from the Premier League in 2017
• Blackburn Rovers, Swansea City, and Stoke City – Each with 7 uninterrupted seasons
Historic Record: Ipswich Town
While several clubs currently boast long runs in the Championship, Ipswich Town holds the all-time record for the longest consecutive stay in the division — 15 seasons, from 2004 to 2019. This remarkable stretch demonstrated resilience, though they eventually faced relegation to League One before bouncing back in recent years.
Why Championship Longevity Matters
Remaining in the Championship over several seasons is a double-edged sword. It reflects a club’s consistency and financial stability, but it also highlights the challenges of promotion. With limited Premier League spots and intense competition, the Championship is a grueling environment that tests managerial strategy, squad depth, and long-term planning.
Conclusion
Bristol City, QPR, and Preston North End currently stand as the Championship’s most enduring teams, reflecting both resilience and the harsh realities of second-tier football. As the league continues to evolve, these clubs remain in pursuit of breaking the cycle and achieving long-awaited promotion to the Premier League.