Eight clubs licensed to compete in the 2025/2026 Armenian First League season

On May 30, the FFA Club Licensing Committee (First Instance Body) held a regular meeting to review applications from clubs seeking to participate in the 2025/26 Armenian First League.

The licensing documents of the following clubs were examined: Andranik, Bentonite, Lernayin Artsakh, Hayk, Mika, Nikarm, Olympia, Ararat-Araks, and Sardarapat.

As a result of the meeting, the committee unanimously decided to grant licenses to eight clubs: Andranik, Bentonite, Lernayin Artsakh, Hayk, Mika, Nikarm, Olympia, and Sardarapat. These teams are now eligible to take part in the 2025/26 First League season.

Among the teams that received a license, Hayk, Olimpia and Sardarapat did not participate in the 2024/25 season.

The application of Ararat-Araks FC was rejected due to non-compliance with sporting criteria. Specifically, the club failed to provide the required number and age categories of youth teams, as outlined in Article 17 of the 2025 edition of the licensing regulations.

Ararat-Araks has the right to appeal the decision within five working days by contacting the FFA Club Licensing Appeals Body.

Additionally, Dovekh FC and Lori-Vanadzor FC did not submit any documentation, so their applications were left unexamined.

It should be noted that the Premier League reserve teams will also take part in the First League.

The First League table for the completed 2024/25 season:

FC Syunik will play in the Premier League next season.