Chinese Professional Football League

The Chinese Professional Football League, abbreviated as CFL, is an independent federation aimed at operating all levels of China's professional football leagues, overseeing the Chinese Super League, China League One, and China League Two. Established in 2025, it replaced the Chinese Football Association 's direct management of leagues to improve governance and financial sustainability.
The CFL was created under China's 2015 football reform plan to decentralize league operations. It manages commercial rights, scheduling, and promotion/relegation, while the CFA retains regulatory powers. The league aims to curb corruption and overspending.

History

2015: The State Council's "Football Reform Plan" proposes separating league management from the CFA.
2022–2024: Anti-corruption crackdown arrests 13 CFA officials, including former chairman Chen Xuyuan.
2025: CFL officially launches with 56 clubs across three tiers. The inaugural council includes representatives from clubs, media, and legal experts.

The CFL operates three tiers:
1. Chinese Super League
2. China League One
3. China League Two : Includes reserve squads and promoted Chinese Champions League teams.