The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) is delighted to support Ireland’s first Walking Football Strategy, which was launched by Minister of State Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD and aims to establish Walking Football as an accessible and inclusive sport for older adults across the country.

The Strategy was developed by the Walking Football National Development Committee which includes representatives from the FAI, Age & Opportunity, Healthy Ireland, Sport Ireland, Irish Men’s Sheds Association and representatives from grassroots level in the sport in Ireland. 

While Walking Football is still in its early stages in Ireland, the sport has seen significant growth and demand from older people in recent years. There are currently circa 1,000 people playing Walking Football with the Walking Football Strategy 2026-2029 planning to establish Walking Football teams in all counties in Ireland and increase participation to 5,000 players by the end of 2029. 

The sport is aimed predominately at men aged 50+ and women aged 40+ and is expected to accommodate Ireland’s ageing population, with the number of people over the age of 50 forecast to grow to 2.62 million, comprising 43% of the population, by 2041 (Central Statistics Office). 

This non-contact adapted version of football features simple rules, a slower pace and a focus on safety and therefore supports recreational and competitive football among older adults.

Minister of State Jennifer Murnane O’Connor said: “Walking Football offers a range of physical, mental and social benefits, providing a low impact form of exercise that promotes social connection and improved mood. 

We have an ageing population, and it is important to promote positive health and wellbeing at all stages of life. Activities such as Walking Football promote healthy ageing and enhance the quality of life for older adults. I am delighted to welcome this Strategy which supports our national policy objectives around health, wellbeing and community development.”

Sue Guildea, Active Programme Manager at Age & Opportunity said: “Walking Football is a fun, non-contact sport and is a great way to socialise and keep fit. We have already seen strong demand for Walking Football at grassroots level and this first strategy for the sport in Ireland responds to its growing popularity among older adults. The realisation of this strategy through continued collaboration across the age and sport sectors will ensure that the sport contributes to positive ageing experiences for participants.”

FAI Director of Football John Martin said: “Everyone should be able to enjoy football, no matter their skillset, ability or age, and this is why Walking Football plays such an important role in keeping more people involved in the game for longer while also providing opportunities for others to be active within their local clubs and communities.”