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Ligue 1

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Ligue 1

Ligue 1 (French: [liɡ œ̃]; lit. 'League 1') is the premier professional association football league in France, representing the highest level of the French football league system. Currently known as Ligue 1 McDonald's due to sponsorship arrangements, it is administered by the Ligue de Football Professionnel. The league is contested by 18 clubs and operates under a system of promotion and relegation with Ligue 2.

History

Initially inaugurated on 11 September 1932 under the name "National," the league was renamed to "Division 1" after just one year. This name was retained until 2002, when it adopted its present title, Ligue 1. Over the decades, it has evolved into one of the most competitive and prestigious football leagues globally.

Dominance and Influence

The modern era of Ligue 1 has been significantly marked by the influence of Qatar Sports Investments (QSI), which, since 2012, has transformed Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) into a powerhouse. This transformation was facilitated by the acquisition of global football stars such as Zlatan Ibrahimović, Thiago Silva, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé, consolidating PSG's dominance in the league.

Competition Format

Ligue 1 operates on a points-based system, with clubs earning three points for a win, one for a draw, and none for a loss. The team with the highest points at the end of the season is crowned the champion. The bottom-ranked teams face relegation to Ligue 2, while the top teams from Ligue 2 are promoted.

European Standing

As of 2024, Ligue 1 is ranked as the fifth top national league in Europe, trailing behind England's Premier League, Italy's Serie A, Spain's La Liga, and Germany's Bundesliga. This ranking reflects its competitive nature and the quality of football played.

Sponsorship

Throughout its history, Ligue 1 has undergone various sponsorship deals, affecting its official naming rights. Notably, in recent years, it was also known as Ligue 1 Uber Eats for similar commercial reasons.

Noteworthy Figures and Records

Ligue 1 has been home to some of the most talented footballers in history and has seen numerous memorable performances. French football legend Roger Courtois was the first player to reach both 100 and 200 goals in the league. The league's historical significance is also captured through its list of top scorers and legendary matches.

Related Topics

Ligue 1's rich heritage and ongoing evolution continue to make it a vital part of international football, drawing fans and players from around the world to its dynamic and exciting competition.