Football Review Committee Proposes Key Changes to Gaelic Football

The Football Review Committee (FRC) has released its final report, recommending significant changes to Gaelic football including the retention of current trial rules, adjustments to certain regulations, and the introduction of a new black-card offence. A comprehensive review is suggested for numerous initiatives by the end of 2026, marking a pivotal moment for the sport.

One notable aspect of the report pertains to youth football, specifically for players under the age of 15. The FRC recommends considering a rule that mandates players who receive a handpass to kick the ball on their next play. This initiative aims to promote greater use of kickpassing, reduce reliance on handpassing, and foster more dynamic, skill-focused play at the youth level. The recommendation seems to respond to the increasing prevalence of the handpass, with this season’s handpass-to-kickpass ratio shifting from 3:4 to a balanced 4:4. This change occurred despite the FRC’s hopes that new rules would lead to fewer handpasses, highlighting the need for ongoing evaluation.

The report also provides insights into attendance figures, indicating a 20 percent increase in championship attendance in 2025, rising from 858,459 to 1,029,963. League attendances improved by 9 percent overall, with an influx of nearly 100,000 juveniles contributing to this growth.

While the proposed four-point goal—a concept previously discussed—has not been revived for immediate debate at a special congress, it remains under consideration. The report suggests that further analysis should evaluate the merits of awarding four points for a goal after the conclusion of the 2026 intercounty season. Additionally, there will be an assessment of whether scores resulting from handpasses or fisted shots over the bar should be incorporated into the current scoring system.

In a significant shift, the report recommends returning to the original protocols for timekeeping, meaning matches would conclude immediately when the hooter sounds unless the ball is in flight or a free kick is awarded. This change is intended to restore clarity and fairness to match timing, as seen in situations during this past season, including the All-Ireland final.

Two new advisory bodies are recommended in the report. The first is a “Gaelic football expert advisory group,” which would provide guidance to the Standing Committee on Playing Rules (SCPR). This group would comprise experienced players, managers, coaches, referees, and analysts. The second recommendation is to establish the Games Intelligence Unit on a permanent basis to gather and collate data essential for evaluating rule changes.

According to the report, “These structures will ensure that the game continues to evolve in a thoughtful, evidence-based manner, guided by the principles of fairness, enjoyment, and excellence.”

Among the suggested adjustments are extending the black card to include jersey-pulling in goal-scoring situations. Currently, the black card sanction applies solely to deliberate offences such as pulling down or tripping an opponent. Additional modifications include penalizing early movement by players before 1v1 throw-ins, changing the kick-out mark delay penalty from a throw-in to a free kick, and clarifying the enforcement of solo-and-go distance.

The report also proposes an analysis of the potential introduction of an “over and back” rule, prohibiting teams from moving the ball back into their own half once it has crossed into the opponent’s half. Such a rule would incentivize teams to press forward and actively seek to regain possession, although careful consideration is needed regarding its application during kick-outs and transitions.

In his introduction to the report, GAA President Jarlath Burns commended the FRC’s work, stating, “It is no exaggeration to state that we have got our game back.” He highlighted the positive impact of the rule changes on both intercounty competitions and club play, noting that the changes have revitalized the game for its broadest participant group.

Burns emphasized that the proposed rule changes will be presented to the Central Council on October 4, where they are expected to be endorsed for debate at the special congress. This ongoing dialogue aims to refine and enhance the future of Gaelic football, ensuring the sport remains engaging and competitive for all involved.

As the GAA prepares for this critical juncture, the focus on evidence-based decision-making underscores a commitment to the sport’s evolution, supporting both players and fans alike as they look forward to the upcoming seasons.