The National Division 1 is the third tier of rugby league in France, below the Elite Two Championship and above the National Division 2. The season runs from September to April. From season 2012/13 the league was split into regions East and West, each team plays each other in their regional league home and away with the top sides then meeting in a series of play-off matches resulting in a Grand Final. The winner can be promoted to Elite Two subject to having adequate finances and facilities. Occasionally if the winners aren't able to be promoted, or opt out, then the team finishing second could be promoted.