# French handball league regulatory changes

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/french-handball-league-regulatory-changes
> Updated: 2026-09-06T12:49:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 3.

French handball leagues are implementing structural and regulatory changes for the upcoming 2026/27 season. The ProLigue is expanding to a 16-club format with the addition of Draguignan and Elite Val d’Oise.

A significant rule change has been introduced for the ProLigue regarding match draws. If a game is tied after 60 minutes, a seven-meter penalty shootout will occur to determine a bonus point. Both teams keep the single point earned from the initial draw, but the shootout winner receives an additional point, totaling two points. This system, similar to models used in the Polish Superliga, is intended to increase intensity for spectators and television audiences.

In the Daikin Starligue, a new playoff format has been introduced for the current season. Since 1984, the championship was decided solely through the regular season, but the new structure aims to increase unpredictability. This change may impact the dominance of Paris Saint-Germain, who have won 12 consecutive titles, by providing more opportunities for challengers such as HBC Nantes and Montpellier.

In women’s handball, Metz Handball is preparing to defend its Champions League title with a record budget of 5.9 million euros. Following their victory over Györ in June, the club has seen a 50 percent increase in jersey sponsorship prices. Metz will begin its European campaign against Storhamar, facing the challenge of defending the title without former MVP Sarah Bouktit.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-06: French handball introduces new playoff format and Metz Handball sets record budget

French handball undergoes major changes with the introduction of a new Starligue playoff format, while Metz Handball prepares for a Champions League title defense with a record budget.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/french-handball-introduces-new-playoff-format-and-metz-handball-sets-record-budget

### 2026-09-02: French Proligue to introduce penalty shootouts for draws

France's Proligue will introduce penalty shootouts for drawn matches starting in the 2026/27 season to award a bonus point, aiming to increase competitive intensity.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/french-proligue-to-introduce-penalty-shootouts-for-draws

### 2026-08-31: French handball leagues introduce new rules and season ambitions

French handball leagues prepare for new seasons, featuring a new 'Bonus Penalty' rule in ProLigue and high championship ambitions from Starligue clubs Montpellier and Limoges.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/french-handball-leagues-introduce-new-rules-and-season-ambitions

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Cite as: French handball league regulatory changes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/french-handball-league-regulatory-changes