Pernambuco football's new tournament model attracts CBF interest

The Pernambuco Football Federation (FPF) has introduced a new format for the Campeonato Pernambucano, serving as a pilot model to address the challenges of maintaining state championships amidst shrinking calendars. The 2026/27 season will feature 31 clubs in a unified structure following the integration of the former A1 and A2 divisions.

Evandro Carvalho, president of the FPF, stated that the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is closely monitoring the implementation. The new model aims to expand the calendar, reduce costs, and provide more opportunities for interior clubs through regionalization. The first stage, beginning October 17, 2026, will divide 24 participants into four regional groups: Sertão, Agreste, Zona da Mata, and Região Metropolitana.

The competition includes specific regulations, such as requiring teams to include ten youth players in each match. While the format offers increased exposure for smaller clubs, it also highlights ongoing infrastructure challenges, including the precarious state of several local stadiums.