The International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) has published the world ranking of national championships for 2004. The Ukrainian Higher League is in 18th place and has improved its rating by 5 positions compared to last year. Notably, the national championship surpassed the Russian Premier League (19th place) in this list. \n \nEntry into the top 20 means that from January 1, 2005, the domestic championship has been transferred to the third category, where clubs will be awarded three points for a victory on the domestic arena and 1.5 for a draw. Note that according to these calculations, the ranking of the best teams in the world according to IFFHS is also compiled. \n \nThe strongest league is the Spanish Primera. In second place is the English Premier League. Third place is shared by the Italian and Brazilian Serie A. In the world top twenty there are 14 European leagues, five South American, and one representative of the North American continent - Mexico. \n