Reform Governance and Structures

Irish football is at a critical point of transition. Since 2019, the FAI has delivered extensive governance reform through the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Government and Sport Ireland. Although these reforms have introduced Governance best practice to the FAI, the broader football ecosystem remains complex and fragmented, with large representative structures, multiple committees and inconsistent governance models across our affiliates, leagues (69+) and grassroots clubs (1,000+).

Club Mark & League Mark are the practical delivery mechanisms that will form a central pillar of future reform. The FAI Board and Executive will lead a sustained programme of change and continuous improvement throughout this strategic cycle, informed by external engagement and best-practice governance standards. This programme will be supported by key stakeholders, with the detailed scope to be aagreed in early 2026.

Through one of our Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) conditions with the Government: MoU14* - Cascading Good Governance, the FAl is committed to ensuring governance standards are applied consistently throughout the football pyramid. This work will focus on:

Irish Football is governed in a transparent, accountable, inclusive and future-focused way across all aspects of the game.