French Women's Championship
Féminin Division 1, or Première Ligue Féminine (PDF), is France's top women's football league. Launched in 1974, it features elite clubs under the French Football Federation (FFF), drawing global eyes with its quality play. The 2023/24 season pits 12 teams in a fierce battle for the title and European spots.
History and foundation
Debuting in 1974 with 20 teams, the league evolved through reforms, stabilizing as Division 1 in 1982. Olympique Lyonnais dominated from 2007, securing 17 straight titles until 2022. Highlight: Lyon's 4-1 thrashing of Barcelona in the 2019 Champions League final. It weathered financial storms and cancellations but boomed post-2010 with PSG and Oser investments.
Tournament format
The season spans 22 double round-robin matches. The champion claims the title and UEFA Champions League entry; runner-up and Cup winner follow. From 2023/24, playoffs decide 3rd-6th. Bottom two drop to Division 2, heightening drama.
Interesting facts
Average goals per game hover at 2.8, emphasizing skill and pace. All-time top scorer: Evelyn Nosi (442 for Lyon). Stars include Wendie Renard (222 France caps), Delphine Cascarino (205 goals), Ada Hegerberg (59 UCL goals). Current standouts: Christiane Endler and Marie-Antoinette Katoto. The league launched careers of Gaëlle Enganamouit and Sakina Karchaoui.