Fourteen teams participated in the 1985–86 Cypriot First Division. All teams played against each other twice, once at their home and once away. The team with the most points at the end of the season crowned champions. No team was relegated to the
1986–87 Cypriot Second Division. The champions ensured their participation in the
1986–87 European Cup and the runners-up in the
1986–87 UEFA Cup. ==Changes from previous season==