Teams
Lommel
Lierse Kempenzonen
Roeselare
Union Saint Gilloise
Deinze
Tubize
Excelsior Virton
OH Leuven
Seraing United
KFCO Beerschot Wilrijk
Westerlo
Patro Eisden Maasmechelen
Club Brugge II
Waasland-Beveren
RWD Molenbeek
Eupen
Antwerp
Genk II
Anderlecht II
Cercle Brugge
Dessel Sport
White Star
ASV Geel
KSK Heist
Standard Liege II
FCV Dender EH
KV Mechelen
Zulte-Waregem
Francs Borains
RFC Liege
Sint-Truidense
KVV Coxyde
Eendracht Aalst
RAEC Mons
KSC Lokeren Temse
KV Oostende
RAAL La Louviere
Royal Excel Mouscron
SC Lokeren-Temse
Wikipedia - Challenger Pro League
The Challenger Pro League, previously known as 1B Pro League is the second-highest division in the Belgian football league system, one level below the Belgian Pro League. It was created by the Royal Belgian Football Association in 2016, replacing the Belgian Second Division. From the season 2016–17 until 2019–20, the competition was named Proximus League, after the main sponsor Proximus.
History
The Belgian First Division B was created in 2016 as the successor of the Belgian Second Division following an overhaul of the Belgian football league system which saw the number of professional clubs reduced to 24 and the number of teams at the second level of the football pyramid to 8.
During Belgian Second Division era from 1973 to 2016, the second division winner and the play-off winner promote to the first division. From 2016 on, the second division winner is no longer guaranteed promotion. The league is divided in two periods of 15 games. The winners of a period compete each other in a final. If a team wins both periods, no final is played and it automatically rises to the highest level. In 2017, Lierse became champion of the league, but no promotion was allowed because they did not win a period. Antwerp and SV Roeselare played the final.
The tournament features a diverse array of teams, including both established clubs and emerging talents, creating an exciting and unpredictable atmosphere. Each season, teams compete in a round-robin format, where they play each other twice, once at home and once away. The league operates on a points system, with teams earning three points for a win, one point for a draw, and none for a loss.
The top teams at the end of the regular season have the opportunity to compete for promotion to the Pro League, while the lower-ranked teams face the threat of relegation to the lower divisions. This dynamic structure not only intensifies the competition but also fosters a passionate fan base, as clubs vie for glory and the chance to showcase their talents on a larger stage.
The Belgium First Division B is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with matches often drawing enthusiastic crowds. It serves as a breeding ground for young talent, with many players using this league as a stepping stone to greater success in their careers. As the league continues to grow in popularity and prestige, it remains a vital part of Belgium's rich footballing heritage.