The French football championship – Ligue 1

Publication date: 12 August 2025

The French football championship (Ligue 1) is the top division of professional football in France. The tournament brings together the best football clubs in the country. Furthermore, it is considered to be one of the most prestigious European championships. Moreover, Ligue 1 is renowned for its high standard of play, talented scorers and exciting matches.

Official website

2025-26 Ligue 1

In the 2025/2026 season, Ligue 1 will be held for the 88th time. The championship will start on August 15, 2025, and finish on May 16, 2026. The tournament will follow its traditional format with 18 teams competing.

Dates and venues

The season will kick off on August 15, 2025, and end on May 16, 2026. Matches will take place at stadiums across France.

Main favorites and participants

A total of 18 teams will take part in the tournament. Among them are:

• Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) — the reigning champion
• Marseille
• Monaco
• Lyon
• Lille
• Nice

PSG remains the main favorite. Marseille, Monaco, and Lyon are expected to challenge them for the title. Lille and Nice will also fight for high positions in the league table.

History of the league

Ligue 1 was founded in 1932 and has seen many legendary matches in its history. Some of the most famous winners include St Etienne, Marseille and PSG. The French league has consistently demonstrated a high level of excellence, which continues to make it attractive to international fans.

Features and uniqueness of the tournament

Indeed, the French championship is renowned for being the launching pad for many of the world’s stars. In addition, the tournament is renowned for its fierce competition for places in European cups, including the UEFA Champions League. The fixture list is packed with highlights. Meanwhile, the tournament’s statistics are regularly updated.

Biggest bet in French championship history

The biggest bet in Ligue 1 history was placed on a match involving PSG. The Parisian club defeated their opponents by a minimum of goals, giving the punter a solid win. Odds on such games have traditionally attracted the attention of betting enthusiasts.

French Ligue 1 results over the last 3 years

2026-27 Ligue 1

The 2026-27 season promises to be no less interesting. The fixture list and league table will be published on the official Ligue 1 site closer to the start of the season. Many clubs are already preparing for transfers to strengthen their squads and compete for trophies.

Keep an eye on the dates of football championships and other events in our Sporting Events Calendar.