The 1939–40 La Liga was the ninth season since its establishment and the first one after the Spanish Civil War, which forced the suspension of the competition for three years.
Despite being relegated in the previous season, Atlético Aviación won its first title ever.
Due to the several damages in Estadio Buenavista after the Spanish Civil War, Oviedo did not play this season.
However, the Spanish Football Federation assured them a berth in the 1940–41 La Liga.
Despite being relegated to Segunda División, it remained in the league by winning a play-off match against Osasuna for occupying the vacant berth after the resignation of Oviedo.