Created in 2024, it is contested by twelve teams belonging to youth academies of professional clubs.
On 27 September 2024, the French Football Federation (FFF) announced the creation of the Challenge Espoirs, with the mission being to "give playing time to young players from the U18 to U23 categories, especially those are part of professional squads of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 clubs.
"[1] The first edition, established as an unofficial competition, would include twelve teams that belong to youth academies of professional clubs.
[4] At the end of the season, the top two teams of each group play semi-finals and a final to determine a champion.
[1] The creation of the Challenge Espoirs was received with unanimous satisfaction among participants.