Ligue 1 to Transition to 18 Clubs, Effective Next Season
Four Teams Relegated for Shift to Smaller League
Move to Reduce Clubs Announced in June 2021
[Date] - The French Football League (LFP) has confirmed that Ligue 1, the top tier of French football, will transition to 18 clubs starting from the 2023-2024 season. This announcement comes after a vote by Ligue 1 clubs in June 2021 to reduce the number of teams from the current 20.
Details of the Transition
To facilitate the transition, four teams were relegated from Ligue 1 at the end of the 2021-2022 season. For the upcoming 2022-2023 season, only two teams will be relegated, placing the 17th and 18th-placed clubs in Ligue 1 in danger of dropping down to Ligue 2.
The change to 18 clubs is intended to increase the competitiveness of Ligue 1 and align it with other top European leagues, which generally consist of fewer teams. The LFP aims to improve the quality of play, increase revenue, and create a more sustainable model for French football.
Impact on the 2022-2023 Season
The impending reduction in clubs has intensified the relegation battle in Ligue 1 this season. With only two relegation spots available, several teams are at risk of dropping down to Ligue 2. The final matches of the season are likely to be crucial for those involved in the fight against relegation.
Qualification for European Competitions
The transition to 18 clubs will also impact qualification for European competitions. The number of teams qualifying for the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League will be adjusted based on the new league structure. Details regarding these changes are expected to be announced by the LFP in due course.
Conclusion
The move to 18 clubs in Ligue 1 is a significant development for French football. The LFP believes that this change will enhance the quality of the league, increase its competitiveness, and ultimately benefit all clubs involved. While the relegation battle in the 2022-2023 season will be particularly intense, the changes are expected to lead to a more sustainable and successful Ligue 1 in the long term.
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