The 2025/26 season of the Challenger Pro League marks a pivotal chapter in Belgian football. As the second tier of the Belgian football pyramid, it serves as both a proving ground for emerging talent and a battleground for clubs aspiring to ascend to the top flight. This season introduces significant structural changes, including an expanded league format and a revised promotion and relegation system, setting the stage for an exhilarating campaign ok9.
Introduction to the Challenger Pro League
Formerly known as the First Division B, the Challenger Pro League has undergone a rebranding to reflect its dynamic role in Belgian football. Established in 2016, the league has been instrumental in bridging the gap between youth development and professional football. It provides a platform for U23 teams and emerging talents to gain competitive experience, while also offering established clubs a chance to rebuild and reclaim their position in the Belgian Pro League.
Structural Changes for the 2025/26 Season
Expansion to 17 Teams
In a significant shift, the 2025/26 season features 17 teams, up from the previous 16. This expansion is part of a transitional phase leading up to the Belgian Pro League’s planned increase to 18 teams in the 2026/27 season. The additional team slots have been filled by the promotion of Olympic Charleroi and Jong KAA Gent, who secured their places as champions of the ACFF and VV leagues, respectively. Their inclusion adds fresh competition and regional diversity to the league.
Revised Promotion and Relegation System
The promotion and relegation dynamics have been overhauled to align with the top-tier league’s expansion. This season, two teams will earn automatic promotion to the Belgian Pro League, while the third promotion spot will be contested in a playoff between the third-place Challenger Pro League team and the 16th-place team from the Belgian Pro League. Notably, there will be no direct relegation from the Challenger Pro League this season, providing clubs with a buffer period to adjust to the new structure.
Key Teams and Players to Watch
Beerschot
Relegated from the Belgian Pro League in the previous season, Beerschot is determined to make a swift return to the top tier. With a rich history and a squad bolstered by experienced professionals, they are among the favorites to secure promotion.
Kortrijk
Another team relegated from the top flight, Kortrijk faces the challenge of rebuilding and adapting to the competitive nature of the Challenger Pro League. Their performance this season will be critical in determining their future trajectory ok 9.
Jong Genk
The U23 team of KRC Genk, Jong Genk, continues to develop young talents with the potential to make an impact in Belgian football. Their participation in the league offers invaluable experience to their emerging stars.
RWDM Brussels
Formerly known as Daring Brussels, the club underwent a name change following fan protests. Now known as RWDM Brussels, they aim to establish themselves as a competitive force in the league.
Zulte Waregem and La Louvière
Both teams earned promotion to the Belgian Pro League this season, reflecting the competitive nature of the Challenger Pro League and its role in fostering top-tier talent.
Season Outlook
The 2025/26 Challenger Pro League season promises to be one of the most competitive in recent years. With the expanded league format, revised promotion and relegation system, and the introduction of new teams, the season is set to deliver exciting football action. Clubs will be eager to secure their place in the Belgian Pro League, while others will strive to establish themselves as formidable opponents.
Conclusion
As the 2025/26 season unfolds, the Challenger Pro League 2025 continues to play a crucial role in the development of Belgian football. It serves as a platform for emerging talents to showcase their abilities and for clubs to rebuild and aspire for top-tier status. With its expanded format and revised promotion and relegation system, the league is poised to deliver a season filled with competitive matches and memorable moments.
