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 Albania Championship is the premier professional soccer league in Albania, showcasing the nation's top talent and fierce competition. Established in 1930, this prestigious tournament has evolved into a thrilling spectacle that captivates fans across the country and beyond.
Each season, teams from various regions of Albania compete for the coveted title, representing their cities with pride and passion. The league features a mix of historic clubs with rich traditions and emerging teams eager to make their mark. Matches are held in iconic stadiums, where the electric atmosphere fuels the players' determination to secure victory.
The Albania Championship not only highlights the skill and athleticism of its players but also serves as a platform for nurturing young talent. Many clubs invest in youth academies, ensuring a bright future for Albanian soccer. The tournament is a vital part of the country's sports culture, drawing enthusiastic crowds and fostering a sense of community among fans.
As the season unfolds, rivalries intensify, and every match becomes a battle for glory. The championship culminates in a thrilling finale, where the top teams vie for the title and the chance to represent Albania in European competitions.
Join us in celebrating the Albania Championship, where passion meets skill, and every goal tells a story of ambition and dedication. Whether you're a lifelong supporter or a newcomer to the sport, this tournament promises unforgettable moments and a true taste of Albanian soccer heritage.