THE LOWDOWN — THE FULL HISTORY
THE RACE
Every English league title from 1888-89 to 2025-26 as a bar chart race: 127 titles, 24 champion clubs, 137 years. Every champion is shown in the year it wins, and every first title is marked.
THE LEAD
Preston led first, then Sunderland, then a long Aston Villa reign. Arsenal took over from 1948, and Liverpool led from 1966, through their 1980s empire, until 2011, when Manchester United's 19th title knocked them off the perch.
THE SHOCKS
Chelsea's first title came in 1955, Ipswich in 1962, Derby in 1972, Forest in 1978 and Leicester at 5000-1 in 2016. The league was suspended for both world wars.
THE TIE
Liverpool's 2025 title drew them level with United on 20. Arsenal's 2026 title took them to 14, ahead of Man City 10, Everton 9 and Aston Villa 7. After 137 years, the top of the board is a tie.
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THE TERRACES — DISCUSSION
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