Spanish Championship. Third Division RFEF
The Tercera División RFEF, or Third Division RFEF, represents the fifth tier of Spanish football, blending professional and amateur clubs in a fierce battle across Spain's regions. Launched in 2020/21 following a major overhaul, it features five groups of 18 teams each, totaling 90 clubs chasing promotion amid raw passion and unpredictability.
History and foundation
Rooted in 1929 as Spain's fourth tier, Tercera División evolved dramatically. The 2020 RFEF reform split it into Segunda RFEF (fourth tier) and Tercera RFEF due to over 350 teams. Fun fact: Reserves of giants like Real Madrid and Barcelona often shine here; Raúl began his ascent similarly. In 2023, UD Logroñés B shocked by topping Group 2 playoffs, while past fixing scandals in the 2010s highlighted the stakes.
Tournament format
Five regional groups of 18 teams play a 34-match double round-robin. Group winners promote directly to Segunda RFEF; runners-up enter playoffs. Teams 13th-18th face relegation playoffs against regional leagues. This setup delivers high drama with 5-7 promotion spots up for grabs.
Interesting facts
Average goals per game hover at 2.4, favoring gritty defenses. Top scorers 2022/23: Xavi Estrella (Real Murcia B, 22 goals), Álvaro Martín (UCAM Murcia, 20). Standouts include Kike Martín (Racing Ferrol) and Adrián Vargas (Extremadura UD), now in Segunda. A talent factory: Pedri and Fabián Ruiz honed skills here via youth sides. Crowds of 1,000-5,000 create electric atmospheres.