Irish football to undergo major reform with new aligned calendar by 2028
FAI General Assembly endorses Aligned Football Calendar Credit: Martin Doherty (ETPhotos)
In a significant move for Irish football, the Football Association of Ireland's General Assembly has voted to implement a new Aligned Football Calendar by 2028.
The decision came during a hybrid meeting in Dublin and online, where the majority supported the change. This reform is part of the Football Pathways Plan and aims to synchronise all professional, amateur, and underage football seasons across Ireland.
FAI President Paul Cooke responded to the approval, stating, “This is a really significant day for Irish football as we come together to improve the game for every player, coach, volunteer, supporter and affiliate."
He added, "We welcome this decision and look forward to activating the phased implementation of the aligned football calendar. We take on board and respect all the views expressed both for and against the resolution here this evening. On behalf of the Board, I want to thank all those who worked on the Aligned Football Calendar to get us to this stage and also all who contributed to the debate over the last year.”
Marc Canham, FAI Chief Football Officer, also commented on the milestone, noting, “Tonight’s vote is a green light for progress but the hard work starts here for all of us."
He acknowledged the diverse opinions shared throughout the country and expressed enthusiasm for working with all stakeholders to introduce the calendar changes.
"Tonight’s vote is a vote for change and a vote for progress and a result Irish football can be proud of across our game,” Canham remarked.
FAI Grassroots Director Ger McDermott reflected on the importance of the decision for grassroots football.
“Our Grassroots game continues to grow thanks to the tireless work of our volunteers, and tonight’s outcome provides us with the roadmap to create the right pathways for all involved in our game," McDermott said.
