Golden League - France Women (EU) 2025/26

The **Golden League** in French women's handball is not a domestic league but an international friendly tournament created in 2012. It was established by the national federations of Denmark, France, and Norway to provide high-level competition for their squads. While the term suggests a permanent structure, the format allows for flexibility in participation through invited guests. Historically, the tournament has featured teams from Europe and South America, such as Brazil, Russia, or Serbia. However, recent iterations have seen a shift in participant selection. The specific edition involving France, Angola, and Japan is distinct from the traditional lineup. This gathering serves primarily as preparation for major international championships. Unlike the permanent three-nation core, these matches often include national teams from other continents. The event operates on a round-robin basis, ensuring every team plays each other once. This structure allows nations to test strategies without the pressure of knockout stages. The French Handball Federation plays a central role in organizing these fixtures, leveraging its logistical capabilities to host visiting squads. While the original Golden League concept focused on Nordic and French rivalry, the modern iteration has expanded its scope. The inclusion of teams like Angola and Japan highlights a move towards global engagement rather than regional exclusivity. These matches offer valuable experience for players aiming for Olympic and World Championship selection. The tournament remains a key fixture in the annual calendar for participating nations, bridging the gap between domestic leagues and major global events.

The competition provides a unique platform for international handball development, bringing together diverse playing styles under one roof.