Handball Federation Coefficients: Historical Rankings (2008-2019)
In professional handball, coefficients serve as a quantitative measure of a national federation's strength based on the performance of its clubs in international competitions. These rankings determine the allocation of slots for various tournaments, ensuring that the most competitive leagues are well-represented.
The coefficients are calculated based on results in several key competitions: the Champions League (CL), the European Cup (EC)—which for men was historically the EHF European Cup and for women the EHF Cup—the Cup Winners' Cup (CWC), and the Challenge Cup (ChC).
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Key Facts
- Germany dominated the men's rankings for nearly a decade, holding the top spot from the 2009/10 season through 2018/19, with the exception of 2008/09.
- Denmark was a powerhouse in the women's game, frequently ranking first between 2008 and 2018.
- Hungary showed consistent strength across both genders, often appearing in the top three for women and top ten for men.
- The Champions League remains the most influential competition for accumulating high coefficients.
- Spain and France consistently maintained top-five positions in the men's category throughout the analyzed period.
Historical Performance Analysis
Men's Federation Trends
The men's rankings show a high level of stability. Germany's dominance is evident, peaking with a coefficient of 167.29 in 2015/16. Spain followed closely, often alternating between the first and second positions, particularly in the 2008/09 season where they took the top spot with a coefficient of 130.11. France, Poland, and Slovenia also established themselves as consistent top-tier federations.
Women's Federation Trends
The women's landscape was more varied. Denmark and Hungary frequently traded the top position. For instance, in 2018/19, Hungary led with 114.13, while Denmark had previously dominated seasons like 2012/13 with a coefficient of 126.11. Russia and Norway also remained formidable forces, consistently appearing in the top five during the early to mid-2010s.
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Comparative Summary of Top Federations
The following table highlights the top-ranked federations for men and women across selected milestone seasons.
| Season | Men's Top Federation | Men's Coefficient | Women's Top Federation | Women's Coefficient |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018/19 | Germany | 128.50 | Hungary | 114.13 |
| 2015/16 | Germany | 167.29 | Hungary | 112.44 |
| 2012/13 | Germany | 149.78 | Denmark | 126.11 |
| 2009/10 | Germany | 141.67 | Denmark | 104.11 |
| 2008/09 | Spain | 130.11 | Denmark | 113.56 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a handball federation coefficient?
A coefficient is a numerical value assigned to a national handball federation based on the success of its clubs in European competitions. It is used to rank the quality of national leagues.
Which country has been most successful in men's handball coefficients?
Germany has been the most successful, holding the number one ranking for the vast majority of the period between 2009 and 2019.
How do the women's rankings differ from the men's?
While Germany dominated the men's side, the women's rankings were more competitive between Denmark and Hungary, with both nations frequently occupying the top spot.
What competitions contribute to these coefficients?
The coefficients are derived from performances in the Champions League (CL), European Cup (EC), Cup Winners' Cup (CWC), and Challenge Cup (ChC).
Did the definition of the European Cup change?
Yes, for the 2012/13 and 2013/14 seasons, the EC referred to the EHF European Cup for men and the EHF Cup for women.