EFL’s longest unbeaten team unveil plans for stadium upgrades ahead of 65-year first

League One title hopefuls Lincoln City are thriving on and off the pitch after announcing plans to improve their stadium.

The Imps are on the longest unbeaten run in the EFL and extended their streak to 16 games in the third tier with a 2-0 win at Mansfield.

Lincoln City FC

Lincoln City FC

A first-half penalty from Rob Street opened the scoring for the visitors on Saturday, before Tom Bayliss sealed victory late on.

Michael Skubala’s men are now just one point behind League One leaders Cardiff City, and a whopping 10 clear of Bolton in third.

EFL’s longest unbeaten team

Lincoln, who last tasted defeat 93 days ago in a 3-2 away loss to Wycombe Wanderers, are heavy favourites to secure promotion.

The East Midlands outfit haven’t reached the second tier of English football in 65 years, but that only tells half the story of the club.

Lincoln were languishing in the National League less than 10 years ago, and ultimately spent six seasons at that level before fate turned.

The club masterminded two promotions in three years to reach League One in 2019, and now Championship football is in sight.

Lincoln are now living up to the adage of trying to fix the roof while the sun is shining after unveiling plans for stadium improvements.

Imps stadium improvements

Lincoln have played at the 10,669-capacity LNER Stadium, aka Sincil Bank, since 1895, which is one of the smallest League One venues.

GETTY

Getty

Should the Imps get promoted, then it would be the smallest stadium in the Championship as the current third-tier table stands.

However, Skubala’s side plan to enhance their pre-match atmosphere by replacing executive boxes with new outdoor seating.

In turn, Lincoln will increase the overall capacity, as well as add additional event and hospitality space behind the Rilmac Stand.

The so-called ‘fan village’ will feature two giant screens, with another one installed for fans inside the stadium itself.

An upgraded PA system is also being put in place to make the most of the LNER Stadium’s new matchday features.

Lincoln’s chief growth and innovation officer, Jason Futers, described the improvements as ‘a really exciting step forward‘.

Lincoln City FC

Lincoln City FC

Lincoln City FC

“It’s all about fan engagement, but also increases corporate and commercial opportunities for the club,” added Futers.

When will the stadium work be done?

Lincoln confirmed that submission of planning permission is imminent, and if approved, work will get underway sharpish.

It is expected to be completed by the start of the 2026/27 season, by which time Lincoln could be playing second-tier football once again.