GAA in exploratory talks over possibility of crowds being allowed attend All-Ireland finals

It would be hoped the All-Ireland finals could also be used as a trial for fans to gradually come back to outdoor sports events over Christmas and January

The scene at Croke Park last weekend during the Bloody Sunday Memorial on Hill 16. With level 5 restrictions to be lifted from early next week, GAA officials remain hopeful the authorities will give them the go-ahead to allow patrons into Croke Park for the December 13 hurling final and December 19 football decider. Picture: Lorraine O’Sullivan

The possibility of next month’s All-Ireland finals being played in front of crowds has not yet been ruled out.

Although the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) are reluctant about spectators returning to sports events for the remainder of the year, the Irish Examiner understands there have been exploratory talks involving government figures about the games being played in front of supporters.