Russian Championship. First League. Women
The Russian Women's First League Championship is the second tier of domestic women's football, featuring ambitious clubs battling for promotion to the elite division. It showcases regional teams fostering young talents and elevating women's soccer in Russia with competitive, engaging matches.
History and foundation
Launched in the 1990s alongside the Top League, the First League was revamped in the 2010s. The 2018 restructuring expanded it to 10-12 teams. A highlight was the 2021/22 season, where Zenit St. Petersburg clinched promotion ahead of Kuban and Chertanovo. Notably, future Russia internationals like Ekaterina Soirre began their careers here.
Tournament format
The league operates a double round-robin format with 10-12 teams, where the champion earns promotion to the Top League, and bottom sides face relegation to the Second League. The season runs from autumn to spring, often with playoffs for survival.
Interesting facts
Matches average 2.5-3 goals, ensuring high-scoring excitement. Top scorer Nadezhda Osipova netted 25 for Ryazan-VDV in a season. Standouts include Anna Cholovia of Kuban and young star Darya Smirnova from Chertanovo, now a national team player. The league excels at developing talents for European clubs.