About First Professional Football League

In 1948, Bulgaria introduced the A Republican Football Group, the first true national league, marking the beginning of continuous league-format championships. The system was heavily influenced by the Soviet model, including experiments with spring–autumn seasons and frequent structural changes. The number of teams often varied, and reforms—including club mergers—were common, especially during the communist period.

During the socialist era, football clubs were often tied to state institutions such as the army, police, or industries. This led to dominant teams like CSKA and Levski, as well as politically influenced reorganizations of clubs and competitions. Despite instability in format, the league became the central pillar of Bulgarian football and remained the top level of competition throughout the second half of the 20th century.

After the fall of communism, the league gradually transitioned into a modern professional system. It underwent multiple rebrandings and reforms, eventually becoming the First Professional Football League in 2016. Today, it operates with promotion and relegation, UEFA qualification spots, and a structure aligned with European standards, continuing the legacy of the national championship that began in 1924.