Walking Football officially kicks off in Ireland
Walking Football Strategy 2026-2029 will drive participation among older adults in modified game growing in popularity
Ireland’s first Walking Football Strategy, launched today by Minister of State Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD, 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 Age & Opportunity, Football Association of Ireland (FAI), 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.”
For further information and to read the Walking Football Strategy 2026-2029 click here: Walking Football Strategy 2026 – 2029
ENDS
Download a copy of the press release here
Notes to the Editor:
About Walking Football
Walking football is a fun, non-contact sport which offers significant physical and mental health benefits. As a team-based activity, Walking Football is a great way to socialise and meet others.
The game has simple rules designed with health and safety in mind. Only non-contact tackling is allowed, and the ball must never go above head height. Walking football is played on smaller pitches with five, six or even seven-a-side teams. It can be played on natural grass, on 3G/4G artificial pitches or indoors.
Walking Football Strategy 2026-2029 Objectives
The Walking Football Strategy 2026-2029 sets out the following key objectives:
- Increase Participation: Grow the number of Walking Football participants, aiming for greater gender balance and diversity in the participant base.
- Enhance Awareness: Boost awareness of Walking Football’s benefits among the public and institutions.
- Organise and Support Infrastructure: Enhance coaching resources and ensure the availability of accessible facilities and equipment.
- Safety and Standards: Uphold safety and high standards in all aspects of the sport’s development.
- Strengthen Partnerships: Strengthen collaborations with relevant stakeholders in sport, health, policy, and the community sector.
- Ensure Sustainability: Secure sustainable governance, funding and support structures.
