First Division (Cyprus) 2026/27

The Cypriot First Division, currently branded as the Cyprus League by Stoiximan, represents the top tier of football in Cyprus. Established in 1934, it replaced an unofficial championship that had operated since 1932. The competition is governed by the Cyprus Football Association (CFA), which was founded in September 1934 to oversee the sport.

Historically, the league has faced significant disruptions. Turkish Cypriot teams withdrew in 1955, and the 1963–64 season was abandoned due to intercommunal violence. Between 1967 and 1974, a unique arrangement saw Cypriot champions promoted to the Greek First National Division. These events shaped the modern structure of the game on the island.

The current format, introduced in the 2014–15 season, involves 14 clubs. The regular season consists of a double round-robin schedule, resulting in 26 matches per team. Points are carried over after this phase. The league then splits into two groups. The top six teams compete in a Championship Play-off comprising 10 additional matches each to determine the title and European qualification. The bottom eight teams enter a Relegation Play-off with 7 additional matches each to avoid dropping down.

Three teams are relegated to the Cypriot Second Division, while three are promoted from it. APOEL Nicosia holds the record for the most titles with 29, followed by AC Omonia with 22. AC Omonia is the current champion as of the 2025–26 season. Notable individual achievements include APOEL’s 25-match unbeaten run in 2013–14 and Demetris Christofi’s 31 goals in a single season during 2012–13.

The competition differs fundamentally from the Cypriot Cup. The First Division crowns a champion through accumulated points over the season, with the winner advancing to the UEFA Champions League. In contrast, the Cup is a knockout tournament where the victor qualifies for the UEFA Europa League. The league operates independently of the cup structure, ensuring a distinct path to continental glory for top performers.