Swedish Championship. Elitettan. Women
Elitettan is Sweden's second-tier women's football league, where clubs compete for promotion to the top-tier Damallsvenskan and fight to avoid relegation. It plays a crucial role in nurturing talent and strengthening the foundation of Swedish women's football.
History and foundation
Launched in 2010 to professionalize women's football, Elitettan started with 12 teams. Limhamn/Bunkeflo claimed the inaugural title. Expanded to 14 teams in 2013, it faced disruptions like the 2020 pandemic rescheduling. A highlight was Kvarnsvedens IK's 2018 promotion, showcasing underdog potential. The league has been a launchpad for national team players.
Tournament format
The season runs April to November with a double round-robin format—26 matches for 14 teams. The champion promotes directly to Damallsvenskan; the runner-up enters playoffs against the 10th-placed top-division side. Bottom three relegate to Ettan; 11th and 12th contest qualifiers. Home games adapt to Nordic weather.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.8–3.2, reflecting competitive balance. Top scorers include Mikaels from Utsikten (22 goals in 2022) and Emma Jonsson of Hammarby (19 in 2021). Standout players: Julia Roden (ex-AIK, now international), Sabina Thorn (Mjölby), and Stella Fransson, who moved to elite European clubs. Current leaders from Västerås and Hammarby promise fireworks.