The French Football Federation (FFF) has officially announced the launch of a professional third-tier league, Ligue 3, starting next season, replacing the current National 1. This marks a major overhaul for French football, with the most notable change being the introduction of the “Football Video Support” (FVS) system for the first time in the country.
According to reports from Le Parisien, the FFF’s executive committee confirmed on May 12 that Ligue 3 will begin in August, bringing a series of innovations. Under the new rules, each match will include a fourth official, and each team’s head coach will have two opportunities per game to challenge controversial decisions covered by the VAR protocol, requesting a video review.
This reform aims to enhance fairness and transparency in the third division, providing a more professional environment for clubs and players alike. The FVS system is expected to be a trial run for potential broader implementation across French football.