League format (2022/23) 14 teams compete in the league, with the top 12 teams at the end of the season qualifying for post-season play to determine the national champion.

It is one of the most successful national ice hockey teams in the world and a member of the so-called "Big Six", the unofficial group of the six strongest men's ice hockey nations, along with Canada, Finland, Russia, Sweden and the United States.

After Finland is the Czech Republic, which provides the NHL with 40 players (4.2% of all players). Of those 40 active players, some of the most notable ones are Jakub Voracek (Philadelphia Flyers), David Krejci (Boston Bruins), and Martin Hanzal (Dallas Stars).

Sparta Prague are one of the Czech Republic's oldest hockey teams, as well as one of the most famous sports clubs in all of Europe. They have eight CHL titles and have been a regular top contender on the international club scene as well over the decades.