The National League promotion system is under fire, with York City co-owner Julie-Anne Uggla leading the charge for change. Her open letter to the EFL and National League highlights what she describes as a "glaring imbalance" in the current system, which only allows two teams to ascend to League Two.
The '3UP' Campaign: A Call for Fairness
Uggla is a vocal supporter of the '3UP' campaign, advocating for three promotion spots from the National League, mirroring the system used in other Football League divisions. This initiative has gained traction amongst National League clubs who view the current structure as fundamentally unfair.
Historically, automatic promotion was absent until 1987, with relegated EFL teams reliant on member votes to maintain their league status. A second promotion place, decided via playoffs, was introduced in 2003. However, the National League’s competitiveness has significantly increased.
York City's Frustration
York City's experience this season exemplifies the perceived injustice. Despite finishing second in the league, well ahead of playoff winners Oldham Athletic, they were denied promotion. Oldham, despite finishing 23 points behind York, secured their place in League Two through the playoffs, highlighting the perceived flaws in the current structure.
- York City finished second, significantly ahead of Oldham.
- Oldham won the playoff final.
- The '3UP' campaign aims to level the playing field.
“Such a glaring imbalance not only undermines sporting merit but erodes the very foundations of fair competition,” Uggla stated in her letter. She argues that the gap between top National League clubs and lower EFL clubs has narrowed, making the case for three promotion spots “beyond compelling”. The current format leaves many teams who dominate the league campaign without the reward of upward mobility.