Portugal will secure an additional slot for its women’s handball clubs in the European League beginning with the 2026/27 season, reflecting a significant rise in the sport’s European rankings.
This change means Portugal will send two teams to the European League, up from its current single entry. The upgrade stems from the European Handball Federation’s (EHF) latest ranking update.
Portugal climbed two positions in the EHF women’s ranking, moving from 19th to 17th place. The improved standing directly grants the nation an extra spot in the prestigious competition.
The EHF rankings are compiled from club performances over a three-season period. For the 2026/27 allocations, results from the 2022/23, 2023/24, and 2024/25 seasons are considered.
Points earned by clubs are divided by the number of competitions they participate in. This system determines each nation’s final position.
Benfica, the national champion, was Portugal’s sole representative in the European League this past season.
Portugal will also continue to have two teams in the European Cup. The nation maintains its fourth-place ranking in that competition.