GAA seek AFL player reassurances as International Rules series talks continue

The series has not been played at men’s level since 2017 in Australia.

DUE NORTH: Kobe McDonald. Pic: St.Kilda

The chances of the International Rules series returning next year appear to be receding.

While the AFL and GAA remain in talks about the revival of the hybrid game that has not been played at men’s level since 2017 in Australia, the GAA are seeking reassurances about AFL clubs’ recruitment of players.

While St Kilda’s decision to release their three Irish players to play Gaelic football for their clubs and Geelong’s willingness to make Mark O’Connor available to Dingle have been warmly received by the GAA, there remain concerns about AFL clubs’ approaches of under-age footballers.

As revealed by the Irish Examiner last month, the GAA’s willingness to resurrect the series is contingent on a more regulated recruitment process, although it already appears the organisations will find it difficult to agree on a date.

The 2027 AFL Grand Final was confirmed for October 2 and it would be the AFL’s preference for the series to take place in Ireland later that month. However, that would clash with a multitude of county finals.

Meanwhile, the GAA are seeking interest from registered charities in becoming one of their official partners next year.

Each year, the GAA nominates four charities to benefit from their charity partnership programme in which they each receive €25,000 and an opportunity to raise awareness of their work in the latter stages of the championship.

"At a national level, for more than 15 years the GAA has matched this commitment with our own official charity partnership programme,” said GAA president Jarlath Burns. “I look forward to extending the programme to welcome even more incredible charity partners for 2027 to continue the work of improving and benefitting people and their communities."

More than 60 charities have benefited from over €1.8 million in direct financial support from the scheme. Charities have until November 30 to make their applications via the official GAA website.

Elsewhere, London veteran footballer Matt Moynihan has retired from inter-county football after eight years. Spa man Moynihan made his debut for The Exiles in 2019 having joined Tir Chonaill Gaels the previous season.

Moynihan was part of the London team that defeated Offaly in 2024 to record the county’s first win in 13 years. “Every day Matt crossed the white line he gave 100% and he is a true gentleman,” said manager Michael Maher. “His loss will certainly be felt from our squad. There is no doubt he has left the jersey in a better place.”