RWDM is promoted to 1A. Virton is relegated from 1B. That is now known. For the first time in a long time, 16 teams are again participating in the Challenger Pro League. That means doubling. We list them for you.
The baggers: Ostend, Seraing and Zulte Waregem
The far-reaching decision of the Pro League to change competition formats caused additional stress in the Jupiler Pro League. Not one, but three teams had to drop.
Seraing came last and had been certain of relegation for some time. Zulte Waregem in Ostend competed to the end, but will also compete in 1B next year.
KV Oostende is forced to take part in 1B next year.
The risers: Patro Eisden, RFC Liège and Francs Borains
Also three newcomers from first national. Led by trainer Stijn Stijnen insured Patro Eisden Maasmechelen be the first on a ticket. The Limburg team continues its advance, although the last day will decide on the title.
RFC Liege is currently second on equal points and making its first appearance in 1B in over 10 years.
Francs Borains is the only team that has not yet obtained a license for the time being. The team finished comfortably third and is still waiting for the green light. Although in principle that would only be a formality.
Stijn Stijnen and Patro Eisden will soon be in 1B.
The youngsters: Club NXT, RSCA Futures, Jong Genk and SL16 FC
For the first time this season, four promising teams played in the Challenger Pro League. Here and there there were doubts about the competitiveness of the teams, but all teams have assured themselves of retention.
For the teams of Genk in Standard was the toil to the end. They narrowly make it in the end.
Club NXT and the RSCA Futures did better. They took part in the promotion playoffs and finished fourth and sixth respectively.
Club NXT finished in fourth place this season.
The middle class: Beerschot, Beveren, Lommel, Lierse, Deinze and Dender
Granted: SK Beveren played at the top all season and was only one point short of playing champion. The ambition will also be to enforce promotion next season.
It was soon clear to the other five teams that their stay in 1B could be extended for another year.
Beerschot in Lierse K. finished comfortably in the top five.
Lommel SK, Deinze in Dender had to play in the relegation group, but the teams will never have had real relegation stress. The difference with the gate closers was too great.
