Three Challenger Pro League clubs file complaint over U23 quota in Belgian football reform

Three clubs from Belgium’s second tier (Seraing, Sporting Lokeren, and Francs Borains) have filed an official complaint with the Belgian Competition Authority (BMA) over the planned inclusion of U23 teams in the Challenger Pro League under upcoming league reforms.

The controversial changes, set to take effect from the 2026-27 season, would expand the Jupiler Pro League from 16 to 18 clubs and enshrine the participation of at least four U23 teams from top-tier sides (including RSCA Futures, Club NXT, Jong Genk, and Jong Gent) in the Challenger Pro League. 

These youth squads would be guaranteed a place regardless of their sporting results, a move that has sparked outrage among traditional second-tier clubs.

One such case concerns Jong Genk, which would have been relegated last season under normal rules, but may now be reinstated due to the new quota system.

”By shielding certain teams from sporting consequences, the essence of professional football is being undermined”

Francs Borains chairman and politician Georges-Louis Bouchez described the reform as “flagrantly against the spirit and fairness of competition” and warned that the league risks becoming a “semi-closed system where rules are not applied equally.”

Seraing’s general director, Roy Eliott Lowy, echoed the concerns: “By shielding certain teams from sporting consequences, the essence of professional football is being undermined. It robs other clubs of fair competition.”

The 2025-26 Challenger Pro League ‘transitional’ season is scheduled to begin the weekend of 9 August. Formats could vary from 16 to 18 teams, depending on U23 team placements and promotions. 

^{RFC Seraing's Wagane Faye and RSCA Anderlecht's Christian Kouame fight for the ball during a football game in Serain © BELGA PHOTO VIRGINIE LEFOUR}