The Belgian Pro League is set to undergo significant changes, transitioning to 18 teams and effectively eliminating its play-off rounds starting with the 2026-27 season. This reform marks the end of the long-standing post-season structure established over 15 years ago, which had become synonymous with the league's competitive format.
Under the new arrangement, announced as part of a five-year domestic rights deal with DAZN, the league aims to simplify the competition and return to its roots, where each team plays more games against each other without the interruptions of play-offs.
"The return to 18 teams is exciting for the league and supporters alike. This change aims to increase the competitiveness of each match and the excitement throughout the season," said the league's spokesperson. This move has been carefully planned following extensive discussions among the member clubs.
For the current season, changes are not expected to take immediate effect. The timeline for implementing this newly structured competition allows teams to finish the season under the existing format, where six teams are vying for the championship, and relegation will still see four teams facing off for survival.
Beginning with the 2025-26 season, there will be transitional arrangements where play-offs will still be held, but with limited stakes. Six teams will compete for the championship, and four will fight to avoid relegation, but only the last-place team from the relegation mini-league will face the drop to the Challenger Pro League.
One significant concern surrounding these changes has been the immediate impact on the Challenger Pro League. With the reformulation, questions have arisen about the number of teams eligible for this secondary competition, which could experience shifts based on the new top league structure. According to recent reports, the introduction of these changes has already sparked unrest among various clubs within both leagues.
Teams such as Lokeren-Temse and Seraing fear potential ramifications from the rapid implementation of the new rules and are considering legal action against the league. George-Louis Bouchez, president of Francs Borains, stated, "If this scenario plays out, I can already say there will be lawsuits." The sentiment among these clubs reflects the anxiety over how quickly they must adapt to new systemic pressures.
Despite these challenges, there are anticipated benefits to the reforms. A simplified structure is believed to provide more engaging viewing experiences and could eventually lead to improved revenues, as fans often prefer closely contested league formats over complicated play-offs. Belgium's position on the UEFA rankings, currently eighth, potentially allows for as many as five European tickets to be distributed. Starting from the 2026-27 season, the top four teams will qualify directly for European competitions, with the fifth spot reserved for the domestic cup winner.
Previously, the Belgian league had allowed for extensive iterations of its competition through the play-off rounds since the 2009-10 season, which had seen formats adjust over the years. Now, the Belgian football community looks prepared to embrace changes marking the end of this era.
While the league continues transitioning, focus will also be on maintaining the excitement among fans and the clubs themselves. Teams must prepare for what will be significantly different dynamics on and off the pitch. Marking the end of the play-offs may alter the expectations of clubs, who now must focus on their full 34-game seasons rather than the high-stakes scenarios created through the previous formats.
The decision appears highly strategic, aiming to bolster not only local competitions but also Belgium's standing and competitiveness on the European stage. Clubs will need to cultivate strong fundamentals and consistent performances to capitalize on the opportunities presented by these upcoming alterations.
Critically, as the structure adapts, the sustainability of football clubs within the league, especially those historically at the bottom of the standings, will be under scrutiny. Teams like Jong Genk, which, regardless of their current last-place standing, remain assured of their position within the Challenger League, serve as points of contention and frustration for those seeking more equitable competition.
Players, club officials, and fans must now brace for the short-term upheaval followed by long-term stability, brought on by the league's adherence to growth and reform. The change to 18 teams is viewed as not just necessary but revolutionary for how Belgian football will be played and perceived.
With the new format looming, there’s no doubt the coming years will be momentous for the Jupiler Pro League and its clubs. Adopting this shift could help unify the league and reinforce its identity, culture, and future. While contentious moments may lie ahead, the goal remains to provide all stakeholders with fairness and opportunity, leading to the best version of Belgian football for fans worldwide.