AFL boss Andrew Dillon has hinted that the very popular International Rules Series between Ireland could be making a comeback.
It was confirmed last year that Dillon and counterparts from the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) met during the 2024 finals series in a bid to revive the series, which was last seen in 2017.
Speaking on AFL.com.au, the league's boss confirmed meeting with GAA president Jarlath Burns to discuss the viability of renewing the fixture, and could include a women's contest.
"We had meetings with the GAA when they were actually on in Australia for Grand Final week last year, really fruitful discussions with them in person. Since that time, our footy department has been liaising with the GAA about International Rules and how that might work," Dillon said.
"There is absolutely a will and a want on both sides to explore that and see if we can revive it. Ultimately, bringing the best of our competition together is something I know the players in the past have really enjoyed."
Veteran journalist and panellist on Channel 7's 'Agenda Setters' Caroline Wilson says the International Rules Series has been pushed for 2025, but is likely to take its place next year, whilst also drawing a line through another venture from the AFL.
"The AFL looked really serious in unveiling International Rules Series again this year," Wilson said on Tuesday evening.
"I'm not sure they'll get it over the line this year but I reckon they will next year. And they might even get a women's International Rules game up and running this year.
"Hasn't been played since 2017 and really hasn't been much goodwill between Australia and Ireland since 2006 when the series ended on a regular basis.
International Rules could be BACK in 2026!
Stream The Agenda Setters here ๐ https://t.co/M9q2CvkZIN pic.twitter.com/s9gCvDIxfH
โ 7AFL (@7AFL) March 18, 2025
"The GAA have a new chairman now. He was here (Melbourne) for the finals series last year. There's a lot of goodwill from both sides.
"And the fact that there are so many Irish women playing AFLW will get there as well.
"I don't reckon state of origin has a hope."
Of the 18 AFLW clubs, 13 had at least one Irishwoman listed in 2024, totalling 33 players across the board.
