Ligue 1 is the top division of French football. It has grown steadily in popularity and is now known both for star signings and for developing young talent that goes on to succeed in Europe.
The format
Since the 2023-24 season the league has had 18 clubs, who play each other twice for a total of 34 matches. A win earns three points and a draw one.
Relegation and Ligue 2
The lowest-placed clubs go down to Ligue 2, and the best clubs from the second division come up to replace them, so the bottom of the table always has drama.
Places in Europe
The top clubs qualify for the UEFA Champions League and other European tournaments, which makes each place in the standings valuable.