The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) has confirmed that from the 2026-27 season the domestic top-flight will revert to a traditional league format, abolishing the playoffs.
The Pro League will return to an 18-team competition with a 34-game schedule that involves home and away matches against all other teams. Ahead of the transition, the RBFA will tweak the current “playdown” system and govern a 16-team second-tier division which will involve four U23 teams.
Belgian’s domestic competition agreed to return to a classic league format in February following a 15-year run of hosting end of season playoffs. The new format will boast fewer matches, allowing clubs to spread workload and focus on European competition.
At the same time, clubs further down the standings will no longer have to deal with empty stadiums and a lack of interest in the playoffs.
The plan to include four U23 teams in the second tier was met with strong resistance and was a hot topic of negotiation. Lokeren-Temse and Franc Borains voiced their displeasure and threatened legal action over the issue.
It’s unclear if either club will pursue that course of action.
Insideworldfootball.com
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