RPL Leadership Clarifies 2023/24 Season Outlook and Reform Talks
The leadership of the Russian Premier League (RPL) has outlined that there are no immediate plans to overhaul the Russian Football Championship for the 2023/24 campaign. The stance comes from Alexander Alaev, the RPL president, who noted that a dedicated workgroup has been created to study possible reforms, but changes will not affect the upcoming season. He emphasized patience, saying the league would evaluate all proposals collectively before deciding on any course of action. The focus remains on delivering the 2023/24 season in its current form while discussions continue in the background.
Alaev previously indicated that the league is weighing format alterations and that a working group within the RPL is tasked with evaluating options. The goal is to gather input from clubs, fans, and stakeholders to determine whether adjustments could improve competition, scheduling, or commercial performance. While no immediate changes are planned, the door remains open for thoughtful modifications down the line.
Looking back, the Russian Cup format saw a notable change ahead of the 2022/23 season. The revised plan introduced a Double Elimination structure, where clubs exit the tournament after two losses. The competition was split into two paths: the Russian Premier League Road and the Regions Road. Organizers proposed this approach as part of a broader effort to streamline the cup and create a more engaging experience for supporters across the country. The May 2022 timing, aligned with the Cup’s new format, reflected an intent to maximize visibility and competitiveness during the transition period.
In other developments, midfield conversations have highlighted Spartak Moscow as a traditional rival preparing for the new RPL season. The club’s readiness, along with broader league preparations, underscores the ongoing competitive dynamics as teams assess fixtures, training plans, and tactical approaches ahead of the kickoff. The overall sentiment among clubs is one of cautious optimism, paired with a practical focus on ensuring the league remains attractive to sponsors, broadcasters, and fans across Russia and beyond.
As talks about format revisions continue, observers in North America and abroad are watching closely. They consider how potential shifts might influence broadcast windows, travel logistics for teams, and the overall rhythm of the league calendar. The RPL has signaled a deliberate approach: explore options, gather comprehensive feedback, and implement changes only when they deliver clear benefits. In the meantime, supporters can expect the 2023/24 season to unfold with the familiar structure in place while the reform process proceeds in the background, guided by a shared objective of strengthening Russian football on both a national and international stage.