Israeli Premier League Rises to 23rd in European Football Rankings After Strong 2026/27 Campaigns

The Israeli Premier League has achieved its most successful European campaign since 2007, officially reaching 23rd place in the UEFA country rankings for the 2026/27 season. This marks a significant improvement over the previous two seasons, with the league accumulating 23.75 points and surpassing Slovenia. Although still behind Romania (22nd place) and far from the 15th spot that would grant two Champions League spots, the progress is notable given the performances of Israeli clubs in Europe.

Key to this rise are the campaigns of Hapoel Be'er Sheva and Hapoel Tel Aviv, two teams that had struggled in recent years but have now become pivotal for Israeli football’s European standing. Hapoel Be'er Sheva earned six ranking points this season alone, surpassing the 5.5 points they accumulated over the prior three seasons combined. Hapoel Tel Aviv also returned to European competition after a long absence, securing three points so far. These results are expected to provide them with better seeding and easier qualification paths in future European tournaments.

The ranking system is based on a five-year cumulative score, which benefits clubs like Maccabi Haifa, who maintain a high ranking due to their 2022/23 Champions League participation. Currently, Austria leads the pack among comparable leagues with 25.75 points and five representatives in Europe, followed by Croatia and Romania. Israel’s three representatives, with one already securing European football next season, have created a comfortable gap over Slovenia and Ukraine, who are ranked 24th and 25th respectively.

The improved ranking not only reflects the clubs’ recent successes but also serves as a strategic asset for Israeli football, potentially easing qualification rounds and enhancing the league’s reputation on the continental stage in the coming years.