Relegated Burnley open the 2026‑27 Championship season at home to West Ham United on Sunday, 16 August. The Clarets finished 19th last term and remain without a permanent boss after Scott Parker’s May departure. West Ham, relegated on the final day, keep Nuno Espirito Santo at the helm, hoping to bounce back after 14 seasons in the top flight.

Wolves kick off the campaign two days earlier against Blackburn at Molineux, while Southampton, docked four points for the Spygate scandal, travel to Watford. Promoted Cardiff face Welsh rivals Wrexham on Monday, and League One champions Lincoln meet Middlesbrough. All fixtures follow the Carabao Cup first round, setting a busy opening week for the division.

Burnley, West Ham and Wolves all target promotion at the first attempt, aware that recent drop‑downs have seen relegated clubs tumble into League One. The Clarets must appoint a manager quickly to steer a squad that has switched between the top tier and second division for four consecutive seasons. West Ham enter the season with continuity, making the opening clash a litmus test for their promotion bid.