National League North 2025-26 Season: Competition Heats Up in England’s Sixth Tier
Introduction: The Importance of National League North
The National League North represents a crucial stepping stone in English football’s pyramid system. Officially known as the Enterprise National League North for sponsorship reasons, it is step 2 of the National League System and the sixth-highest tier overall in the English football league system. For the clubs competing in this division, success means a potential path to professional football and the dream of reaching the English Football League.
Current Season Overview
The 2025–26 National League season, known as the Enterprise National League for sponsorship reasons, is the 11th season under the title of the National League, the 22nd season consisting of three divisions, and the 47th season overall. The National League North consists of 24 teams, all competing intensely for promotion opportunities.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car were confirmed as the new sponsors for the National League on 23 June 2025 after agreeing a multi-year deal, replacing Vanarama. This sponsorship change marks a new era for the competition, bringing fresh investment and visibility to clubs at this level.
Competition Format and Promotion Race
The structure of National League North offers multiple routes to advancement. Promotion goes to the 1st place finisher automatically, with promotion playoffs for teams finishing 2nd to 7th, whilst the bottom four face relegation. This format ensures that the season remains competitive until the final matches, with teams battling not just for the championship but also for crucial playoff positions.
The team with the best attack in National League North 2025/2026 is Merthyr Town, with 62 goals scored in 26 games, whilst South Shields have the best defensive record in National League North 2025/2026, with 20 goals conceded in 25 games. These statistics demonstrate the contrasting styles and tactical approaches employed by clubs seeking promotion.
Significance for English Football
The National League North continues to play a vital role in developing both players and clubs within English football. Every game in the National League, and selected matches in National League North and National League South, is available on DAZN, either live and/or on-demand, increasing exposure for clubs and providing valuable broadcasting revenue.
As the season progresses beyond the halfway mark, the promotion race intensifies. For fans and clubs alike, the National League North represents more than just football—it embodies community pride, sporting ambition, and the possibility of ascending England’s football pyramid. The coming months will determine which clubs achieve their dreams of promotion and which must regroup for another campaign.