New GAA rules get underway: What is changing in football?

This weekend marks the start of the National Football League, as the return of inter-county football gets underway for 2025.

One of the main talking points this season is the introduction of changes to football, aimed at speeding up the game and reducing defensive play.

After years of debate about how the game could be improved, several new rules were introduced by the Football Review Committee and trialed back in October.

While some adjustments were made to the recommendations, a number of new rules were officially approved for implementation in 2025.

So, what can fans expect to see at games this weekend?

Only one player from each team will contest throw-ins at the start of each half. The other two midfielders must remain on their defensive side of the halfway line.

The kick-out will now be taken from the 20-metre line and must travel beyond the 40-metre arc. Players may position themselves behind the 20-metre line when the goalkeeper takes the kick-out. If an opposition player interferes with the goalkeeper or intercepts the ball within the 40-metre arc, the ball will be moved forward 50 metres.

Points scored from outside the 40-metre arc will now be worth two points, while points scored from within the 40-metre arc will remain worth one point. Goals will be valued at four points, and converted 45s will continue to be worth one point.

A player who is fouled has the option to continue play by taking a ‘solo and go’ rather than pausing for a free. This option does not have to be taken by the fouled player. For instance, if the fouled player is grounded, they can hand the ball to the nearest teammate, who may then take the ‘solo and go.’

If the fouled player takes the ‘solo and go’ themselves, they are allowed an