Spanish Championship. RFEF Third Division. Group 7
RFEF Third Division Group 7 is one of five regional groups in the Tercera, Spain's fifth tier. It features clubs mainly from Valencia, Catalonia, and surrounding areas in eastern Spain. These teams battle for promotion to Segunda RFEF while fending off relegation threats. The league embodies grassroots passion, with matches drawing loyal crowds to intimate venues.
History and foundation
Established in 2020 post-Tercera rebrand, Group 7 evolved from the old Tercera Grupo VII since the 1970s. Notable alumni include reserves of Real Madrid C and Espanyol B. Highlight: 2021/22 season saw Hercules Alicante dominate en route to higher leagues. A 2023 match-fixing scandal rocked the group, met with swift RFEF penalties. Clubs like CD Castellón B and Valencia Mestalla have nurtured talents for La Liga elites.
Tournament format
Round-robin format with 18 teams playing 34 matches home and away. Top spot promotes directly to Segunda RFEF; 2nd-5th enter playoffs for another spot. 16th-17th face relegation playoffs to Tercera Federación, 18th drops to Primera RFEF. Copa RFEF eligibility adds incentive. Season runs August to May.
Interesting facts
High-scoring: average 2.7 goals per game, fueled by open play. Top scorers: José Luis Molfeso (22 for Hercules, 2022/23), Antonio Medina (19 for CD Acero). Standouts: Raúl Ferrer (Eldense, now Segunda), Valencia Mestalla's Javi Pérez (La Liga debutant), Lleida Esportiu's Diego García. A proven talent pipeline.