Teams
Partizani Tirana
Laci
Teuta Durres
Vllaznia Shkoder
Skenderbeu
KF Tirana
FK Kukesi
KS Flamurtari Vlore
Bylis Ballsh
Kastrioti Krujë
FK Egnatia
KS Luftetari
FC Dinamo City
Apolonia Fier
KF Erzeni
KS Kamza
KS Lushnja
KS Korabi Peshkopi
KS Elbasani
AF Elbasani
Terbuni Puke
Besa Kavaje
FK Vora
KF Beslidhja Lezhe
Wikipedia - Kategoria Superiore
Kategoria Superiore (transl. Superior Category), also known as Abissnet Superiore for sponsorship reasons with internet service provider, Abissnet, is a professional league for men's association football clubs in Albania. At the top of the Albanian football league system, it is the country's premier football competition. It is contested by 10 clubs, and operates on a system of promotion and relegation with the Kategoria e Parë. Seasons run from August to May, with teams playing 36 matches each (playing each team in the league four times, twice at home and twice away).
The competition was founded in 1911 as the Albanian National Championship before the independence of Albania as a Knockout format. In 1930, it was officially recognised by FSHF during the reign of King Zog. Since 1930, 45 clubs have competed in recognised competitions, while only ten clubs have won the title: Tirana (26), Dinamo Tirana (18), Partizani (17), Vllaznia (9), Skënderbeu (8), Elbasani (2), Teuta (2), Flamurtari (1), Egnatia (1) and Kukësi (1). The current champions are Egnatia, who won their 1st title in 2023–24.
History
Early years
Football was first introduced to Albania by an English-Maltese priest named Gut Ruter, who visited the Saverian college in Shkodër in 1908. The first football club in Albania was Indipendenca, founded in Shkodër in 1912 by Palokë Nika. The first 90-minute game with two 45-minute halves was played in October 1913 between Indipendenca Shkodër and the occupying Austro-Hungarian Imperial Navy. The game is considered to be the first international game to be played in Albania, and it ended in a 2–1 loss for Indipendenca, with the captain and founder of the club Palokë Nika scoring the only goal for the Albanians.
World War II championships
Albania was invaded by Italy in April 1939 and World War II soon broke out, meaning the Albanian Football Association, much like the other organisations in the country, ceased operating. Despite the war, three championships were held between 1939 and 1942, with Tirana winning the championships in 1939 and 1942 and Shkodra winning in 1940. Despite calls to recognise these championships, the Albanian Football Association maintains the position that the championships were not organised by them and cannot be formally recognised.
Names
| Name | Period | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albanian | English | ||
| Kampionati Kombëtar Shqiptar | Albanian National Championship | 1930–2003 | — |
| Kategoria Superiore | Superior Category | 2003–present | The official name, even though from 2021 for sponsorship reasons the name changes. |
| Abissnet Superiore | 2021–present | Sponsored by Abissnet. | |
Records
Most points in a season 84 points. KF Tirana (2004–05)
Most points without winning the league title 79 points. KF Elbasani (2004–05)
First Albanian team to qualify for a European competition proper stage. KF Skenderbeu (2017–18) Europa League
The tournament features a thrilling format, with teams battling it out in a series of intense matches. The competition begins with a group stage, where teams are divided into groups and play against each other in a round-robin format. The top teams from each group then advance to the knockout stage, where they face off in exhilarating single-elimination matches.
The matches are held in various stadiums throughout Albania, providing an opportunity for fans from all regions to witness the excitement firsthand. The atmosphere is electric, with passionate supporters filling the stands, waving flags, and chanting in support of their favorite teams. The tournament not only showcases the talent and skill of the players but also celebrates the rich soccer culture and unity of the Albanian people.
The "Albania Championship" is known for its high level of competition, with teams displaying exceptional athleticism, strategic gameplay, and fierce determination. The matches are characterized by fast-paced action, skillful ball control, and thrilling goals, captivating both avid soccer fans and casual spectators alike.
Throughout the tournament, players have the opportunity to showcase their abilities, aiming to impress scouts and potentially secure contracts with professional clubs both domestically and internationally. The "Albania Championship" serves as a platform for talent development, nurturing the next generation of soccer stars and contributing to the growth and success of Albanian soccer on a global scale.
The tournament culminates in a thrilling final match, where the two best teams battle it out for the ultimate glory of being crowned the champions of Albania. The winning team not only earns the prestigious title but also secures a place in European competitions, representing Albania on the international stage.
The "Albania Championship" is a celebration of soccer excellence, uniting fans, players, and communities across the country. It is a testament to the passion and love for the sport in Albania, showcasing the country's rich soccer heritage and its commitment to fostering talent and promoting the beautiful game.