Established in 1901, the Nemzeti Bajnokság I, commonly known as the NB I or the Hungarian First Division, stands as the premier professional football league in Hungary. With a rich history and a tradition steeped in the love for the beautiful game, this league serves as the battleground where Hungarian football prowess is showcased and celebrated.
The NB I operates on a system of promotion and relegation, featuring 12 teams that engage in a double round-robin format. This format ensures each team faces the others twice, once at home and once away, in the pursuit of the coveted league title. The competition is robust, with points accumulated determining the ultimate champion, European competition qualifiers, and the unfortunate teams facing relegation to the second division.
Over the years, certain clubs have carved their names into the annals of Hungarian football within the NB I. Ferencvárosi TC, founded in 1899, stands as the most successful and decorated club, having secured numerous league titles and becoming synonymous with Hungarian football excellence. Other clubs such as Újpest FC and MTK Budapest have also left their indelible mark on the league, contributing to the diversity and competitiveness of Hungarian football.
The list of past winners in the NB I reflects the cyclical nature of success within the league. Ferencvárosi TC, MTK Budapest, and Újpest FC have been perennial contenders, each enjoying periods of dominance. The battles for supremacy between these traditional powerhouses and other ambitious clubs fuel the league’s competitive spirit, captivating fans across Hungary.
Success in the NB I not only brings domestic glory but also opens doors to European competitions, including the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League. Representing Hungary on the continental stage, clubs from the NB I aim to test their mettle against Europe’s best, contributing to the growth and exposure of Hungarian football internationally.