Swiss League

The second tier

The Swiss League is the second division of Swiss ice hockey. Until 2017 it was called Nationalliga B, NLB for short. The league is a mix of traditional clubs, up-and-coming teams and partner teams of top-flight clubs. Below it is the MyHockey League as the third tier.

Format and promotion

The regular season is followed by the playoffs. The Swiss League champion can earn promotion in the league qualification against the weakest team in the National League. It must meet the requirements of the top league, for example regarding arena, finances and youth development. Whether and in what form this series takes place is set by the federation each season. How series work is explained in playoffs.

Farm teams and development

Some National League clubs work closely with Swiss League teams or field their own partner teams. Young players thus get game experience at a high level without leaving the club. Similar models exist in Germany with development licences between the DEL and DEL2.

Economic situation

The Swiss League has repeatedly debated its structure and financing in recent years. Several clubs voluntarily dropped down or withdrew for economic reasons. At the same time, individual teams have been promoted to the National League, showing that the way up is open.

For fans

Swiss League games are cheaper and more intimate than in the top league. Many arenas are small and steeped in tradition, and the atmosphere at derbies is great. Anyone wanting to experience live ice hockey in Switzerland will find a good alternative to the National League here.

Well-known locations

The Swiss League has clubs from all parts of the country – from German-speaking Switzerland as well as Romandy and Ticino. Many towns have a long ice hockey tradition, and some were once in the top flight. Switzerland's multilingualism is also visible on the ice: coaches and players switch between German, French and Italian.

Youth

Many National League players gained their first professional experience in the Swiss League.

Recent promotions

HC Ajoie from Porrentruy was promoted to the National League in 2021, and EHC Kloten returned in 2022. Both examples show that the way up is open if a club meets the sporting and economic requirements.

Partner teams

Some National League clubs field their own youth or partner teams in the Swiss League. This allows young players to stay with one club while still playing at a high level. Critics see this as a threat to the league's independence; supporters see it as sensible development.

Well-known alumni

Many future national team players made their first professional appearances in the Swiss League before moving to the National League or abroad.

Economic foundations

Budgets in the Swiss League are considerably smaller than in the National League. Clubs are financed through spectators, regional sponsors and youth work. Some clubs deliberately rely on homegrown talent rather than expensive import players. For players, the league is therefore often a springboard; for clubs, a proving ground before possible promotion.

For fans, the league often offers cheap tickets and closeness to the players.