Croky Cup to expand amateur club participation from 2027

The Pro League has announced structural changes to the Croky Cup starting with the 2027-2028 season, aimed at increasing opportunities for amateur clubs. Under the new format, 156 provincial clubs will participate in the first round, an increase of 40 from the current 116 participants.

Additionally, two amateur teams will receive direct entry into the round of 32, bypassing the preliminary rounds. One spot is reserved for the winner of the Beker van Vlaanderen, while the second spot will be designated by the French-speaking amateur federation (FFA).

In the current season, amateur club Habay is set to face Beveren in the round of 32. While the club expressed disappointment at not drawing a major Belgian powerhouse, coach Samuel Petit noted that the team remains proud to have reached this stage and hopes their opponents might underestimate them.