French Ligue 3 football season kicks off with new challenge system

The third tier of French football, Ligue 3, begins its inaugural professional season on Friday, 5 August 2026. Amiens SC travel to the Paris‑region club FC Fleury 91 for the opening match, with kickoff scheduled for 20:45. Amiens coach Alain Pochat reported a flawless preparation period in July, noting no injuries and strong performances in friendlies. Fleury, under new manager Maxime d’Ornano—formerly of Stade Briochin, FC Rouen and Stade Malherbe Caen—entered the season after successful preseason games, including a 5‑1 win over Entente Crest Aouste.

Ligue 3 also introduced a novel “challenge” system: each team may request up to two video reviews per match for goals, penalties, red cards or player‑identity disputes. The request is signalled by the head coach presenting a card to the fourth official. If the review favours the requesting team, the decision stands. This system, distinct from VAR, uses at least two cameras and aims to professionalise the league, while Ligue 2 still lacks video assistance.