Hull City (The Tigers) have returned to the Premier League after a 9‑year absence (since the 2016/2017 season). The Play-off Final is known as the most expensive match in world football, guaranteeing the winner financial revenues that can exceed £150 million from broadcasting rights and commercial deals.
Hull City will enter the 2026/27 Premier League season with confidence and ambition, aiming to establish themselves among the top-flight clubs.
They finished the Championship season in 6th place, then successfully secured promotion through the play-offs. This is Hull City’s third promotion via the play-offs in their history (2008, 2016, 2026).
Despite strong predictions of relegation last season—and despite financial sanctions and a transfer embargo—they achieved a remarkable turnaround.
Promoted teams to the Premier League for the 2026/27 season:
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Coventry City (Champions)
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Ipswich Town (Runners-up)
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Hull City (via Play-offs)
Play-off Final – 23 May 2026
Hull City 1 – 0 Middlesbrough (Wembley Stadium) Goal: Oli McBurnie (90+5') — Hull City
Midfield Battle… Where Hull City Outperformed
Although Middlesbrough dominated possession, Hull City were:
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More organized
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Quicker in ball recovery
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Clearer and sharper in transitions
Middlesbrough… Possession Without Threat
Middlesbrough held the ball for long periods, but lacked:
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Line-breaking penetration
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The final touch
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Speed in the attacking third
