Official: again with 18 clubs and playoffs disappear

OTHER This afternoon the decision was made on the new league format. We return to the old system with 18 clubs in 1A and no playoffs. The new system will take effect from the 2026-2027 season.


There was talk of introducing the new system as early as next season, but that would have major consequences for the outcome of the current league. The system of descenders and ascenders would then be changed en cours de route. 

“We are saying goodbye to a formula that has certainly served us for the last 15 years,” Pro League CEO Lorin Parys said of the new formula. “But given the large number of games today, it had become difficult to get that carried by an overwhelming majority of the general assembly.”

By returning to 18 clubs without playoffs, the top clubs will play only 34 games instead of 40, allowing them to start the season a week later in the summer and to have another two-week winter break. In addition, European-playing clubs can have their schedule adjusted somewhat according to the European calendar.

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