The Rugby Football League Championship Second Division was founded in 1902 and was the second tier of professional rugby league in the UK until 2003.

After three seasons the Second Division was abolished and not resurrected until 1962.

The division was resurrected again in 1973 and has been played every season since.

During the 1991–92 season, a third division was established and, for the first time, two teams were relegated.

Controversy was caused as London Broncos, who finished 4th in the Second Division, were elected to the Championship ahead of Keighley, Batley and Huddersfield.