2026 League One Play Off Final: Who Gets Promoted?
The League One play-off final remains one of the standout occasions in English football outside the Premier League. With promotion to the Championship decided over a single game at Wembley, the pressure and importance of the fixture are enormous for players, managers, and supporters alike.
This year’s play-offs have already produced dramatic moments, close contests, and memorable individual displays on the road to the final. Whether you closely follow League One throughout the season or simply tune in for the play-offs, the format adds an extra layer of intensity to every match.
Below, we break down how the play-offs work, which teams qualify, how the finalists reach Wembley, and why securing promotion can be so significant for a club’s future. It will give you a clear picture of what is on the line as the final approaches.
When Is The League One Play Off Final?
The League One Play Off Final will take place on 24th May, with the kick-off time confirmed to be 1pm, following the conclusion of the League One Play Off semi-finals.
Contested between Stockport County and Bolton Wanderers, the game will be played at Wembley Stadium, which signifies the importance of the occasion.
Who Won The League One Play Off Final 2025?
Charlton Athletic won promotion to the Championship, after defeating Leyton Orient 1-0 in the 2025 League One Play Off Final.
Charlton finished 4th in League and faced 5th placed Wycombe Wanderers, securing a spot in the play off final after a 1-0 aggregate win after Matt Godden’s late goal at The Valley. Leyton Orient progressed to the play off final after beating Stockport County 4-1 on penalties following a 3-3 draw on aggregate.
Charlton defeated Leyton Orient 1-0 at Wembley after defender Macaulay Gillesphey’s 31st minute goal, ensuring promotion to the Championship.
Who Is In The League One Play Off Final?
The 2026 League One Play Off Final will be battled out between Stockport County and Bolton Wanderers. Stockport finished 3rd in League One on 77 points, while Bolton ended the season in 5th place on 75 points.
Stockport will be aiming to reach the Championship for the first time, while Bolton will be hoping to return to the Championship for the first time since 2019.
How Did Each Team Reach The Final?
Stockport cruised past 6th place Stevenage after a 3-0 aggregate win which secured their place at Wembley. A last minute goal from Ben Osborn ensured Stockport went into the second leg with a one-goal advantage.
A comfortable performance at Edgeley Park saw Stockport run out 2-0 winners, with goals from Louie Barry and Kyle Wooton, securing their place in the play off final.
Bolton defeated 4th place Bradford City 2-0 on aggregate to reach the play off final. Amario Cozier-Duberry sealed a first leg home win for the Wanderers, with a fantastic curling effort in the far corner.
Xavier Simons scored late on in the return leg at the University of Bradford Stadium to seal a 1-0 win on the night and a 2-0 win on aggregate.
Who Are Favourites To Get Promoted?
The League One Play-Off Final between Stockport County and Bolton Wanderers promises to be a tightly contested battle for promotion to the Championship. With both clubs enjoying strong campaigns and building momentum through the play-offs, there is little separating the two sides heading into Wembley.
A major strength for Stockport has been their structure and discipline, particularly in high-pressure matches. That composure could prove valuable in a one-off final where managing nerves and key moments often determines the outcome.
Bolton Wanderers arrive with significant experience and quality of their own. Bolton have consistently been among the stronger teams in the division and possess players capable of producing decisive moments on the big stage. Their physicality, attacking options, and experience in important matches make them a dangerous opponent.
Overall, the League One Play Off Final appears extremely evenly balanced. Stockport County may hold a narrow edge based on consistency and momentum, but Bolton Wanderers’ experience and attacking threat ensure this is far from a clear-cut contest. In a Wembley final, a single moment could ultimately decide which side earns promotion to the Championship.club will join the Championship next season.
Bet on the League One Play Offs at Bet442
At Bet442, you will find clear markets on every play off fixture, with prices and stats updated so you can follow the action with confidence. Match pages bring together key information in one place, making it straightforward to compare markets before the whistle and in play.
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