Under National League relegation rules, four teams slip through the trapdoor at the end of each season. They drop into the sixth tier of English football, either the National League North or National League South, depending on location.
They are replaced by two clubs relegated from League Two and four promoted from the National League North and South, who also fill the places left by the two clubs promoted to League Two.
This guide explores the rules surrounding National League relegation. We explain where relegated clubs go, the clubs new to the division, and other ways clubs can be demoted.
How Many Teams Are Relegated From the National League?
In accordance with National League relegation rules, four teams crash out of the division, and our table clearly explains the breakdown:
| Position | Outcome |
| 1st | Promoted to League Two as champions |
| 2nd-7th | Play-offs for second promotion place |
| 8th-20th | Stay in the National League |
| 21st-24th | Relegated to National League North or South |
Like the EFL, the National League features 24 teams. Each side plays the other 23 clubs home and away in a round-robin style format.
Points are allocated as follows: three for a win, one for a draw and none for a defeat. The National League has also been lobbying for a third promotion spot to bring it in line with other divisions.
Where Do Relegated Clubs Go?
The National League represents the fifth tier of English football, offering a pathway into the EFL, while it also gives League Two clubs a chance to rebuild. It is arguably one of the most important layers of the game.
Nevertheless, here are a couple of things you should know about what happens following National League relegation:
- The National League denotes the fifth tier; the North and South are the sixth tiers of English football.
- Relegated clubs are placed in either the North or South division based on geography.
- The allocations are subject to National League requirements; however, the split isn’t always two and two.
- The North and South divisions normally promote two clubs (champions and play-off winners).
National League 2026-27: Who Is New This Season?
The National League has seen a shake-up for the 2026/27 season (see our full National League teams guide). This segment of the guide explores who came up and went down:
- Harrogate Town and Barrow were both relegated from League Two after finishing 23rd and 24th respectively in the 25/26 campaign.
- AFC Fylde were promoted to the National League after securing the National League North title. They were joined by Kidderminster Harriers, who saw off South Shields 2-0 in the play-off final.
- Worthing were promoted from National League South after clinching the title on the final day of the season.
- They came up with Hornchurch, who beat Torquay United 3–2 after extra time in the play-off final, reaching the National League for the first time.
- Four clubs were relegated from the National League after the 25/26 campaign — Brackley Town and Morecambe dropped into the North division, while Braintree Town and Truro City slipped into the South.
Other Ways Clubs Can Be Relegated
Most clubs are relegated by finishing in the bottom four, but there are other ways demotion can happen:
- Points deductions – A points deduction might be applied, which can be due to financial irregularities or rule breaches. The FA might hand out a points deduction, and a separate one can be issued by the National League, which could see a side relegated.
- Ground grading – Clubs can be relegated for not meeting standard ground requirements. The National League relegation rules stipulate a side relegated for not fulfilling the required grade may not be eligible for promotion again until it has attained the expected grade of the division it wishes to be promoted to.
- Uncompleted season – In some cases, clubs may choose to be withdrawn from the National League if it is in the process of being liquidated and can’t complete a season. Or, in extreme circumstances, teams can be expelled and subsequently relegated.
National League Relegation Betting Markets
Common National League relegation markets include:
- To be relegated – This is an outright market suggesting which side may fall through the trap door of the National League. Remember, four teams can be relegated.
- Bottom-place finish – A more specific market, this requires wagering on which side will finish bottom of the table. Check 7bet market rules for more details.
- Relegation without a named team – The market excludes one club, often the one considered most likely to go down, and covers which of the others will be relegated.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teams go down from the National League?
After the end of each season, four teams may suffer relegation from the National League.
Do relegated clubs go to the North or South?
This depends on the geographical location of each side, but it will be at the discretion of the National League committee which will rule on exact placements.
How many teams come down from League Two?
The bottom two sides are relegated from League Two to the National League.
Which clubs were relegated from the National League in 2025-26?
Brackley Town and Morecambe (to the North), and Braintree Town and Truro City (to the South).
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