Stoke City is set to appear on television in seven of their first nine Championship fixtures this season, a record‑breaking exposure boost as the league rolls out blanket live coverage.
How many games will be televised?
The club’s schedule shows matches against Oldham Athletic, Swansea, Wolves, Norwich, Charlton, Cardiff, Sheffield United, Middlesbrough, Preston, Blackburn, Portsmouth, Millwall, Lincoln, West Brom, Bristol City, and a New Year clash with West Brom all confirmed for Sky Sports platforms. Only the away trips to Southampton and Watford remain off the box. This surge follows the EFL’s 2023 Sky Sports deal, which guarantees each club at least 20 live broadcasts this term.
Why does TV exposure matter for Stoke City?
Televised games drive ticket sales and broaden the fan base beyond the Potteries. Attendance rose from 22,742 in 2023/24 to 23,698 last season, showing a clear link between visibility and gate receipts. Even cup ties, like the 8,809 crowd against Walsall, benefit from the heightened profile. The club hopes the upcoming Carabao Cup first‑round tie against Oldham will keep that momentum going.
What does the latest data say?
Stoke City finished the 2025 season in 17th place in the Championship with 55 points, recording 15 wins, 10 draws and 21 losses, and a recent form of LLLLD. They have scored 51 goals while conceding 56, leaving a –5 goal difference. The team sits 40 points behind leaders Coventry and faces Birmingham away on 2027‑02‑06 as their next league challenge.
What’s next for the club?
Beyond the TV schedule, the club must translate exposure into results. With a packed broadcast calendar, maintaining a solid home record will be vital to climb the table. Fans can look forward to a packed autumn slate, including high‑profile clashes at 12.30pm and 3pm slots that promise both excitement and a chance to improve the club’s standing in the league.
