The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) director general, Tom Ryan, has proposed shifting the All-Ireland finals back to August, potentially by a week or two. While a return to the traditional September schedule is unlikely, Ryan sees merit in extending the season. This suggestion comes in his annual report, presented ahead of the GAA's Annual Congress. The report also highlights proposals to eliminate extra time in drawn All-Ireland finals and reintroduce replays for provincial finals. Financial highlights include a stable year with increased income, driven by events at Croke Park and strong commercial performance.
GAA director general Tom Ryan has suggested the possibility of moving the All-Ireland finals back to August . While he has ruled out a return to the traditional September schedule in the near future, a shift by a week or two is being considered. Ryan outlined this possibility in his annual report, presented at Croke Park ahead of the GAA 's Annual Congress in Donegal town later this month. The last time both All-Ireland finals were held in September was in 2017, after a two-week advance.
Following the Covid-19 pandemic, a split season model was adopted, placing the finals in July since 2022. The 2025 finals remain scheduled for July, but Ryan hinted at future adjustments. He noted a growing sentiment among GAA members to extend the season slightly, potentially by moving the finals back. Ryan also mentioned exploring the possibility of starting the Allianz Leagues earlier in January, potentially by suspending provincial pre-season competitions. He acknowledged that this is still under debate and that 2025 serves as a trial period. Another proposal heading to Congress aims to eliminate extra-time in drawn All-Ireland finals, opting instead for a direct replay. This addresses concerns raised after last year's hurling final, where Clare defeated Cork by a point after extra time. The GAA is also proposing the reintroduction of replays for drawn provincial finals, mirroring the approach to All-Ireland finals. Ryan emphasized the importance of learning from these trial periods and addressing any disquiet they might generate. In terms of finances, the GAA reported a stable year with increased income. Central Council income jumped from €112 million in 2023 to €132 million last year, largely attributed to six concerts and two rugby matches held at Croke Park. Other factors contributing to the increase included one-off events like the near-sellout Cork-Limerick All-Ireland hurling semi-final. Croke Park stadium revenues alone surged by €15 million, reaching €46 million for the GAA. Commercial income also saw a €3 million boost. The GAA distributed 82 cents of every euro generated back to its units, a slight decrease from 83 cents in 2023. However, Ryan cautioned that due to escalating construction costs, the GAA might need to scale back the number of capital projects undertaken annually. He suggested exploring shared development models, such as collaborating with universities or other organizations, to prioritize investment in key facilities and alleviate local funding burdens
GAA All-Ireland Finals August September Replay Croke Park Finances Tom Ryan
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