GAA players back new rules but warn of rising demands

GPA CEO Tom Parsons said player feedback regarding increased physical and mental load "emphasises the need for proper down time and a closed season" and that those "who are so happy to extend the inter-county season in 2026 should take note".

57% of inter-county players said their physical load has increased following the implementation of Gaelic football's new rules. Pic: ©INPHO/Andrew Paton

There is strong support for Gaelic football's new rules from inter-county players ahead of Saturday's vote at Special Congress.

According to the GPA's annual member survey, 94% of players feel their experience of the game has been improved by the new rules. Less than three per cent said their experience is now worse than it was under the old rules.