Spanish Championship. RFEF Third Division. Group 6
RFEF Third Division Group 6 represents a regional tier in Spain's fifth-level football pyramid, featuring teams mainly from eastern Spain, including Valencia, Catalonia, and the Balearic Islands. It's a battleground for ambitious clubs aiming for promotion and a nursery for talents who later shine in higher divisions.
History and foundation
Established in 2020 amid the overhaul of Tercera División into Tercera RFEF, Group 6 absorbed teams from former Groups III and IV. A standout moment: in 2021/22, CD Castellón B shocked favorites to earn promotion via playoffs. The league endured the pandemic with empty stands but saw fans return passionately. Valencia derbies, like those between Herd CF and CD Olímpic Xàtiva, draw thousands and add electric atmosphere.
Tournament format
The setup is straightforward: 18 teams in a double round-robin, 34 matches each. Top team promotes directly to Segunda RFEF; positions 2–5 enter playoffs for extra spots. 16th–18th relegate to lower Tercera RFEF, 13th–15th face relegation playoffs. Season runs August to May, with a winter break.
Interesting facts
Average goals per game hover at 2.4–2.7, balancing spectacle and tactics—defenses often prove decisive. Top scorers include José Luis Molfeso (UE Llagostera, 22 goals in 2022/23) and Antonio Martín (CD Acero, 19 goals). Notable alumni: Xavi Simons (ex-Barcelona B), honing skills here before elite clubs, and Kevin Pérez from Valencia Mestalla, now in Segunda. The group excels in pace and technique, fueling Spain's top flight.