Golden League - Denmark Women (EU) 2024/25

The Golden League, also known as the Golden Handball League, operates as an international friendly tournament for national handball teams. It stands apart from official European Handball Federation (EHF) championships, functioning as a high-level preparatory series held during EHF international windows. This structure allows top European teams to play matches outside the pressure of official tournaments without impacting ranking purposes.

Founded in 2012 by the national federations of Denmark, France, and Norway, the competition began with a specific format designed around three stages. These stages were hosted in Denmark, France, and Norway, featuring the three founding nations plus one invited guest team. The overall winner was determined by the cumulative results of matches between the three permanent members. Denmark claimed the inaugural 2012-2013 edition and won again in 2014-2015. Norway subsequently dominated the later years, securing victories in 2016-2017, 2018-2019, and 2022. France won a specific 2020 edition which featured a modified format.

The traditional multi-stage league format effectively ceased after 2019/2020. However, the name 'Golden League' has been used sporadically for similar friendly tournaments in subsequent years. The 2024/2025 editions have involved Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, and Romania. The current holder of the traditional title remains Norway from 2022. This invitational series differs fundamentally from the Euro, the official continental championship open to all EHF members.

Current participants in the 2024 season include Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and Romania.