Sheffield Wednesday endure historic relegation from Championship after derby defeat
Guardian Sport
by Greg Peters at Bramall LaneFebruary 22, 2026
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Sheffield Wednesday suffered a heartbreaking relegation from the Championship after a 2-1 derby defeat to city rivals Sheffield United at Bramall Lane. This marked the end of their three-year stay in England’s second tier, as their mathematical fate was sealed following a season filled with highs and lows. The match, played under the symbolic sight of snowdrops blooming in January—a typically late winter bloom—added an ironic twist to their downfall. Wednesday had been just one point away from safety heading into the final game, but their inability to secure a favorable result against their local rivals proved costly.
The derby victory for Sheffield United, coupled with other results across the league, consigned Wednesday to relegation despite their valiant efforts throughout the season. This outcome was particularly bitter for Wednesday’s fans, as it came after a campaign where the team had shown flashes of promise and resilience. The club had been on the brink of securing their Championship status in recent weeks, but a late charge from United, combined with other results, dashed their hopes. The timing of the relegation, so early in the season and during what is traditionally a quiet period for football
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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/22/2026