What does LFP mean in FOOTBALL

The abbreviation LFP stands for “Ligue de Football Professionnelle”, which translates to “Professional Football League” in English.

There are a number of steps that aspiring French professional footballers must go through to make it into one of the two top tiers of French football — Ligue 1 or Ligue 2. This includes taking part in trials at clubs and academies, playing youth tournaments sanctioned by the LFP, and being observed by talent scouts from professional teams.

There are a total of four divisions in French football. The two main divisions are known as Ligue 1 and Ligue 2, which are both organized and regulated by the LFP. Below these two is Championnat National (National Championship) which is made up of non-professional clubs from around the country, followed by Regional Leagues where clubs play local matches only.

As well as organizing and regulating football competitions, the LFP also oversees disciplinary matters such as sanctions against players or teams who break its rules. Additionally, it works with broadcasters to ensure that professional games have maximum exposure on television or radio as well as online platforms such as streaming services.

Many of France's most successful teams play in either the top tier — Ligue 1 — or the second tier — Ligue 2. Some examples include Paris Saint-Germain FC (most championships won), AS Monaco (most second tier titles), Olympique Lyonnais (most European club cup final appearances) and Stade Rennais FC (highest points tally).