[1][2] Jiangsu were the defending champions before they ceased operation on 28 February 2021 and were disqualified by the Chinese Football Association on 29 March 2021.

[3] Clubs promoted from 2020 China League One Dissolved entries Changchun Yatai returns to the division after a 2-year absence.

Cangzhou Mighty Lions were reprieved from relegation after finishing bottom in the previous season due to the dissolution of Jiangsu.

In December 2020, the CFA issued a policy to "neutralize" the names of all professional football clubs.

[7] The CFA imposed a salary cap on the Super League in December 2020, taking effect with the 2021 season.