Both theFootball League First andSecond Divisions are expanded from 16 to 18 teams in 1898, bringing the total number of League sides to 36. Additionally, thetest match system is abandoned in favour of automatic relegation and promotion. There is no relegation from the First Division in 1898,Burnley andNewcastle United being promoted to increase the number of teams to 18. To increase the size of the Second Division,Burslem Port Vale is restored to the League;Barnsley,Glossop (1898–1915) andNew Brighton Tower (1898–1901) are elected for the first time.
Italy
Formation of theItalian Football Federation (Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio or FIGC) inTurin. It is also known asFedercalcio.
23 April – The 23rd StreetYMCA of New York City wins the first national basketball championship tournament, organized by the U.S.Amateur Athletic Union (AAU).[4]
10 December — first championship ice hockey league, theAmateur Hockey Association of Canada (AHAC) disbands over a dispute to allow a new member in its senior league. TheCanadian Amateur Hockey League (CAHL) is formed to replace it, from the clubs seceding from AHAC.
