France National 3

The Championnat National 3, commonly referred to as simply National 3 and formerly known as Championnat de France Amateur 2, is a football league competition. The league serves as the fifth division of the French football league system behind Ligue 1, Ligue 2, Championnat National, and the Championnat National 2. Usually contested by 112 clubs, the Championnat National 3 operates on a system of promotion and relegation with the Championnat National 2 and the regional leagues of the Division d'Honneur, the sixth division of French football. Seasons run from August to May, with teams in eight groups playing 26 games each totalling 1,456 games in the season. Most games are played on Saturdays and Sundays, with a few games played during weekday evenings. Play is regularly suspended the last weekend before Christmas for two weeks before returning in the second week of January.

The competition was founded in 1993 as National 3 and lasted for five years before being converted to Championnat de France Amateur 2 in 1998. In 2017, the FFF reorganised amateur football and the restructured 5th level again became Championnat National 3. Some clubs that participate in the league are semi-professional. The matches in the league attract on average between 200 and 400 spectators per match.

The France National 3, officially known as National 3 (N3), is the fifth tier of the French football league system. Established in 2016, it serves as a crucial stepping stone for clubs aspiring to ascend to higher levels of competition, including the National 2 and ultimately Ligue 2.

The tournament features a diverse array of teams from across the country, divided into several regional groups. Each season, clubs compete in a round-robin format, with the aim of securing promotion to the next tier. The league is known for its passionate local rivalries, showcasing a mix of amateur and semi-professional players who bring enthusiasm and dedication to the pitch.

Matches are typically held on weekends, drawing local fans who support their teams with fervor. The France National 3 not only provides a platform for emerging talent but also fosters community spirit and pride, as clubs often have deep-rooted connections to their local areas.

As teams vie for promotion and strive to avoid relegation, the France National 3 remains an essential part of the French football landscape, highlighting the rich tapestry of talent and competition that characterizes the sport in France.