Football is the number one sport based on participation, but the third sport in Latvia after ice hockey and basketball based on popularity. Many other sports are also more popular than football in Latvia, but in recent years it has gained more popularity. The Latvian Football Federation () is the sport's national governing body. There is a league system, with the Higher League and First League serving as the top leagues in Latvia. There is the Latvian Second League also, where mostly amateur teams play. There are also national cup competitions, with the Latvian Cup being the most notable. History The Latvian Football Federation was founded in 1921. In 1922 The Latvian Football Federation joined FIFA. In 1940-1991, Latvia was part of the USSR and as an independent state did not take part in the World Cup and European championships. After gaining independence in 1992, membership was restored. Domestic Football Skonto FC were the most popular and successful football team in Latvia and have won the Latvian Higher League 14 times since independence from Russia. Latvian football is rife with corruption and bribery. FK Ventspils is the only team from Latvia which has played in the group stage of the UEFA Europe League (2009–10). No Latvian team has ever reached the group stage of the UEFA Champions League. League system The table below illustrates the comprehensive structure of Latvian league football. Note: Exact numbers of clubs at every level of the league system, particularly those at lower levels, are subject to change and are current as of the 2022 season. National team The Latvia national football team in 2003 qualified to Euro 2004. This resulted in being the first and currently only Baltic national team to do so. See also National teams Latvia national football team Latvia national under-21 football team Latvia national under-19 football team Latvia national under-17 football team Women's teams Latvia women's national football team Competitions Leagues Latvian Higher League Latvian First League Latvian Second League Women's leagues Latvian Women's League Cups Latvian Football Cup Latvian Supercup Clubs See also Alberts Tarulis Notes References External links League321.com - Latvian football league tables, records & statistics database