The Championship continues to prove why it’s one of the most passionately supported leagues in world football. This past weekend, stadiums across the country were packed with loyal fans, creating atmospheres that rival those of the top-flight leagues. From historic grounds to modern arenas, the turnout was a testament to the deep-rooted culture and emotional pull of these clubs. Here’s a look at the top five attendances from the weekend—where numbers alone tell a story of tradition, ambition, and unwavering support.
1. Ipswich Town v Derby County- 29,155
Ipswich Town’s home fixture against Derby County drew an impressive 29,155 fans to Portman Road, securing the second-highest attendance in the Championship this weekend. The turnout speaks volumes about the momentum building in Suffolk, where belief, tradition, and ambition are converging. With Derby bringing their own storied legacy and passionate following, the match had all the ingredients of a classic: two proud clubs, rich histories, and fanbases that show up in force. For Ipswich, the packed stands weren’t just a backdrop; they were a statement of intent, a visual echo of a club pushing forward while staying rooted in its identity.
2. Middlesbrough V Sheffield United – 26,610
Middlesbrough’s clash with Sheffield United at the Riverside Stadium drew a solid 26,610 fans, underscoring the enduring pull of two clubs steeped in northern football tradition. The attendance marked one of the weekend’s standout turnouts, with Boro supporters showing up in force despite recent form fluctuations. Sheffield United’s travelling support added to the occasion, bringing their trademark edge and vocal backing. The fixture carried weight—not just in league positioning, but in the emotional stakes tied to identity, pride, and regional rivalry. From the pre-match buzz to the final whistle, the Riverside felt alive, a reminder that in the Championship, atmosphere is never in short supply
3. Stoke City v West Brom Albion – 25,226
Stoke City’s home fixture against West Bromwich Albion drew a robust 25,226 fans to the bet365 Stadium, reinforcing the club’s reputation for consistent, passionate support. The attendance placed it firmly among the weekend’s top Championship turnouts, with both sets of fans contributing to a gritty, high-stakes atmosphere. Stoke’s fanbase, known for its vocal backing and deep-rooted identity, turned out in force as the Potters looked to assert themselves against a fellow promotion contender. West Brom’s travelling support added edge to the occasion, making for a matchday that felt charged from start to finish. In a league where every point matters, this crowd brought the intensity that defines the Championship’s heartbeat.
4. Bristol City v Hull City – 21,385
Bristol City’s showdown with Hull City at Ashton Gate drew a strong crowd of 21,385, placing it among the top attendances in the Championship this weekend. The turnout reflects the growing energy around Nigel Pearson’s side, with fans responding to a team that’s showing ambition and grit. Ashton Gate has long been a venue where atmosphere and identity collide, and against a well-supported Hull City, the matchday felt charged with purpose. From the South Stand’s vocal backing to the club’s bold visual presence, Bristol City continues to build a brand that resonates deeply with its supporters. This attendance wasn’t just a number; it was a reflection of belief.
5. Portsmouth v Preston North End – 20,226
Portsmouth’s home fixture against Preston North End drew a solid 20,226 fans to Fratton Park, showcasing the unwavering loyalty of the Pompey faithful. Despite being one of the smaller attendances in the Championship’s top tier this weekend, the atmosphere was anything but subdued. Fratton Park’s tight, historic layout amplifies every chant and cheer, creating a matchday experience that punches well above its numbers. With Preston bringing a competitive edge and Portsmouth continuing to build momentum, the crowd played its part in a fixture that blended grit, tradition, and the kind of emotional intensity that defines Championship football.
As the Championship rolls on, these attendance figures offer more than just numerical insight; they’re a window into the soul of each club. From the roaring stands of St Mary’s to the intimate intensity of Fratton Park, the weekend’s turnouts reflect the emotional depth, cultural pride, and unwavering loyalty that define this league. Whether chasing promotion or defending legacy, fans continue to show up in force, proving that in the EFL, identity is lived out loud every matchday.
All attendance statistics referenced in this article were sourced from BBC Sport.
