Key Highlights
- The National League is facing pressure to increase the number of promotion spots from two to three.
- Recent history suggests that promoted National League clubs can compete well in higher divisions.
- York City were runners-up but missed out on promotion, sparking criticism of the current system.
- Support for 3UP includes Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and football legend Neil Warnock.
The Push for Third Promotion Spot in Football’s Pyramid
The National League, often referred to as “League Three,” is currently under pressure to change its promotion system. For years, two teams have been promoted from the league to the English Football League (EFL) each season, but this might be set to change. The 3UP campaign, backed by over 100 clubs and prominent figures in football, aims to increase the number of promotion spots to three.
A Historical Context
The National League has had two promotion places since 2003. This system has been criticized as outdated, with critics arguing that it is no longer fit for purpose. In recent seasons, the gap between second place and the eventual play-off winners has widened significantly. For example, in the 2024-25 season, York City finished runners-up but were beaten by Oldham Athletic in the semi-finals of the play-offs.
Support from Prominent Figures
The push for a third promotion spot is gaining momentum. Former players and managers have voiced their support, including Robbie Savage, who manages Forest Green Rovers, and legendary manager Neil Warnock. Warnock argues that “common sense” should prevail in allowing an extra promotion spot and notes that EFL clubs are worried about these teams because they can hold their own.
York City co-owner Julie-Anne Uggla has been vocal in her criticism of the current system, describing it as “unjust” and “no longer fit for purpose.” She believes that the system is built on outdated assumptions and that change is long overdue. The 3UP campaign aims to address these concerns by increasing the number of promotion spots.
Timeline and Current Status
The 3UP campaign has gathered significant support, with over 100 matches being scheduled for a three-minute later kick-off on Saturday to bring attention to the issue. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has also commended the efforts of the campaigners, while 60 MPs have backed the idea. Football broadcaster Jeff Stelling has joined as an ambassador for the National League.
The EFL has so far resisted pressure to make any changes to the system, citing concerns about competitive balance across the football pyramid. However, the National League argues that there is no competitive imbalance between the divisions and maintains that two promotion spots are insufficient.
Future Implications
If 3UP is implemented, it would likely involve a change in the play-off structure. Currently, teams who finish second to seventh compete for the final promotion spot. The National League suggests that the second-placed team could be automatically promoted, with the third place filled via play-offs.
However, details of this mechanism remain under discussion.
The campaign is viewed as a crucial step in modernizing football’s structure and ensuring that clubs can compete on a level playing field. Whether or not 3UP will be implemented remains to be seen, but the pressure from campaigners and supporters shows no sign of waning.
