Where next for SPFL reconstruction?

Talk of SPFL reconstruction keeps popping up. Tier five reform looks welcome, but plans to tinker with the SPL and bring back Reserve Leagues have hit that familiar cash wall.

There’s been talk for a while about SPFL reconstruction and, from what I’m hearing, some sensible bits are actually moving forward. The idea of sorting out tier five is one of those changes you can get behind — it tidies up the pyramid a bit and gives clubs a clearer route. To be fair, that feels like a positive step.

What’s on the table

The current working proposal, as mentioned, includes expanding the top two tiers to 14 teams and merging League One and Two into one division. The restructure for the Championship and the lower leagues has apparently been provisionally agreed, while changes to the SPL remain up in the air. It’s not flashy, but it’s practical — the kind of rearrangement that could stabilise the middle of the pyramid and make promotion and relegation more straightforward.

Why SPL change stalls

Truth is, any move that impacts the SPL brings money into sharp focus. Clubs are understandably wary of taking a short-term hit for a long-term gain. You can see why — broadcast deals, gate receipts and budgets are all delicate. So while expanding the SPL might make sporting sense to some, the financial risk puts most boards off. It’s the usual balancing act between what’s best for the game and what keeps the club coffers safe.

Reserve leagues and the money question

The reintroduction of Reserve Leagues has been floated too, but that’s stalled for the same reason — who pays? Clubs want the league to fund it and, if the pot isn’t there, the sensible reaction is to say no. Development football is important, but it needs structure and funding. Without a clear purse to support it, proposals look good on paper and limp in practice.

So where does that leave us? Incremental improvements to the lower tiers look achievable and useful. Big changes at the top won’t happen until clubs are comfortable with the hit to finances. It’s not glamorous and it’s not immediate, but steady reform at the Championship and below might be the pragmatic route forward.

Written by EHL2020: 22 May 2026