Romania: Schedule format makes for better competition as season heads into Round 2

The 2025 season introduces a new and expanded structure for the CNFA. For the first time ever, the league will run a double round-robin format, allowing each team to face every opponent twice—once at home, once away. That makes for a six-week regular season, the longest in Romanian championship history. And with that comes opportunity.

Unlike previous seasons, where a single upset could swing the standings beyond recovery, this year’s format allows room for development. Coaches can make adjustments. Rookies can grow. Rivalries can breathe.

Still, with only four teams competing, the margin for error remains tight. At the end of Week 6, the top seed will earn a direct berth in RoBowl XV, skipping a week of playoff action. Meanwhile, the second- and third-place teams will battle it out in a semifinal, fighting for the remaining ticket to the championship game. For the team finishing last in the standings, however, the season will come to an abrupt end.

That means early results may not make or break a season, but they do set the tone. The difference between a RoBowl berth and elimination could come down to a single head-to-head record or points differential. The longer season gives teams room to evolve—but not much room to stumble.

With five games remaining, the window to grow is open for each team to take the wheel. Who’s ready to drive?