NB I Women (Hungary) 2026/27

The Nemzeti Bajnokság I (NB I) stands as the premier women's handball competition in Hungary, governed by the Magyar Kézilabda Szövetség. While the current iteration began in 1951, the sport has a deeper lineage, with large-court championships dating back to 1928. The league operates with a distinct structure compared to many other national competitions. It features a double round-robin format where every team plays each other twice, resulting in 26 matches per side. This approach removes the need for a playoff system, as the title is decided purely on final standings.

Performance in the league carries significant weight. The bottom two sides face automatic relegation to the NB I/B, a division split into East and West regional groups. Victory in either regional group secures promotion back to the top flight. The competitive landscape is defined by a clear hierarchy. Győri Audi ETO KC holds the record for success with 19 titles, followed closely by Vasas SC with 16 and Ferencvárosi TC with 14. This concentration of talent creates a duopoly that distinguishes the women's game from the men's version.

The league's reputation extends well beyond Hungary's borders. Hungary currently ranks first in the European Handball Federation's women's coefficient. This ranking grants the NB I direct entry into two Champions League spots for the champion and runner-up, alongside one place in the EHF European League for the third-placed team. Győri Audi ETO KC has capitalised on this status, winning the EHF Champions League seven times. Historically, the competition has also operated under various sponsor names, including the K&H Női Kézilabda Liga.