New Ladies Football playing rules ratified with Laois LGFA club game set for change

In 2027, they will come into effect for juvenile inter-county championships, as these competitions have already commenced for the 2026 season, as well as the All-Ireland Under 20 Championship, which begins in the coming week. Counties are not required to introduce the new rules in competitions already underway within their own structures, they will have the option to do so if ratified at county board level.

The rules must be applied to all U18 club championships that have not yet started or are due to commence within this month, as well as all adult club championships in 2026, including those in Britain and Europe.

From 2027 onwards, the new playing rules will be mandatory across all competitions from Under 13 level right through to adult grade. They will also be introduced from the 2026–2027 academic year for Post-Primary Schools and Higher Education competitions.

International Units will not be required to implement the changes until 2027, with the exception of adult championships outlined above, although they may choose to adopt them earlier if approved by their own boards.

Ladies Gaelic Football Association President, Trina Murray, reflected: “I would like to sincerely thank our players, match officials and coaches for the vital role they have played in trialling the rule enhancements across the 2026 Lidl National League and Higher Education competitions. Their engagement, honesty and willingness to embrace change have been central to this process.

"I also want to pay tribute to the outstanding work of the Playing Rules Review Workgroup, whose dedication and expertise have guided this process from the outset. The feedback to date has been extremely positive, and we have already seen a tangible impact in terms of improving the speed and flow of the game. The adoption of these rules represents a significant and progressive step forward for Ladies Gaelic Football at all levels.”

Portlaoise is set to host one of the upcoming LGFA Playing Rule Enhancements Workshops. It will take place on Tuesday, May 5, in the Leinster GAA offices on the Mountmellick Road. The workshop is intended to upskill referees, players, coaches & anyone interested in getting upskilled with these new playing rules. Admission to these workshops is free and you can get your tickets HERE. Details on the other workshops taking place across the country can be found on the LGFA website.

The Laois LGFA team will get their Leinster Intermediate Championship campaign underway on Saturday, May 2, away to Westmeath in a Leinster semi-final. It's a repeat of last year's Leinster final, where a fast start from Westmeath was crucial as they were crowned champions.