List of football clubs in France facts for kids

French football is super exciting! This page lists many famous men's and women's football clubs. These teams played in the French football leagues during the 2023–24 season. You'll also find a few clubs from outside France that compete in this system.

How French Football Leagues Work

French football has a pyramid system. This means there are many levels, from the top professional leagues to smaller amateur ones. Think of it like different levels in a video game, where teams try to move up!

Top Professional Leagues

These are the highest levels where the best teams play. Players are full-time professionals.

• Ligue 1 (Level 1): This is the top league in France. It's where big teams like Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique de Marseille play.
• Ligue 2 (Level 2): The second-highest professional league. Teams here are fighting hard to get promoted to Ligue 1.

Semi-Professional League

This league is a mix. Some players might be full-time, while others balance football with other jobs.

• National (Level 3): This is the third tier. It's a very competitive league, just below the professional levels.

Amateur Leagues

These leagues are for teams where football is often a hobby or a stepping stone.

• National 2 (Level 4): This is the highest amateur league. Teams here often have a mix of experienced and young players.
• National 3 (Level 5): This league is spread across different regions of France. It's a key step for teams hoping to climb higher.

Regional and Local Leagues

Below National 3, there are many regional and district leagues. These are even more local. You can find out more about them on the French football league system page.

Some Notable French Football Clubs

Here's a look at some well-known football clubs in France, listed alphabetically. This isn't every single club, but it gives you an idea of the teams playing across different levels!

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Club	Division	Level	Location	Department	Region
Marignane GCB	National	3	Marignane	Bouches-du-Rhône	Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Olympique de Marseille	Ligue 1	1	Marseille	Bouches-du-Rhône	Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
FC Martigues	National	3	Martigues	Bouches-du-Rhône	Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
FC Metz	Ligue 1	1	Metz	Moselle	Grand Est
AS Monaco FC	Ligue 1	1	Monaco	(Outside France, but plays in French system)
Montpellier HSC	Ligue 1	1	Montpellier	Hérault	Occitanie

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