The Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) is the top professional ice hockey league in Germany. Founded in 1994, it features teams from various cities competing for the championship title. The league operates under a regular season format followed by playoffs, culminating in the crowning of the champion. The DEL is known for its high level of competition and has contributed to the growth of ice hockey in Germany. Many players in the league are from Germany, but it also attracts international talent, enhancing the overall quality of the game and increasing its popularity among fans.