The dust has now settled on the 2024/25 Championship season and we’re already itching for the next campaign to get underway.
Leeds United were crowned victors, Burnley were promoted automatically and Sunderland won the play-offs to complete the trio rising to the Premier League. There were contrasting emotions for Cardiff City, Plymouth Argyle and Luton Town, however, as all three teams were relegated to League One.
Coming down from the Premier League to the Championship next season are the three teams that were promoted in 2023/24: Southampton, Ipswich Town and Leicester City. Then there are the three sides rising up from League One: world record holders Birmingham City, dark horses Wrexham AFC and play-off champions Charlton Athletic.
The new season may be months away yet but the excitement is already brewing and there are so many questions we want answered. Will Birmingham spend big again in the summer and soar into promotion contention immediately? Can Wrexham continue their incredible momentum and survive the drop? Who else could be in the fights for promotion and relegation?
It’s tricky to forecast how things could pan out, especially as the Championship is one of the most unpredictable divisions in the world, let alone just in England. But with the excitement brewing, we’ve decided to have a bit of fun and ask artificial intelligence for a prediction.
Using Grok, the AI tool on X (formerly Twitter), we’ve generated a premature but detailed prediction for the 2025/26 Championship table. Without further ado, and make sure you’re prepared for shocks and surprises galore, here’s how Grok reckons the final standings will look come May 2026.
5. 21st: Sheffield Wednesday (48 points, -20 GD)
Reason: Sheffield Wednesday’s inconsistent 2024/25 season and lack of attacking potency suggest a relegation scrap. They may survive due to experience but face a tough campaign. | Getty Images
6. 20th: Derby County (50 points, -18 GD)
Reason: Derby’s return to the Championship after promotion saw them struggle due to limited squad depth and quality. They’ll fight relegation but should just stay up, just as they did last season. | Getty Images
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7. 19th: Watford
Reason: Watford’s managerial changes (e.g., Paulo Pezzolano) and poor 2024/25 form suggest another tough season. Their lack of attacking output and defensive frailties lead to a low finish. | Getty Images
8. 18th: Queens Park Rangers (54 points, -12 GD)
Reason: QPR’s recent seasons have been plagued by inconsistency, and their negative goal difference reflects defensive vulnerabilities. They’ll avoid relegation but remain in the lower half. | Getty Images