FAI Reduces Debt by €4 Million in 2025 Financial Update

The Football Association of Ireland reduced its debts by nearly €4 million in 2025, chief executive David Courell told the association’s annual general meeting on Saturday at the Clayton Hotel Silver Springs in Cork City.

Debt Reduction and Financial Accounts at the Cork City AGM

The meeting followed a turbulent period for the organisation, coming after the men’s senior team fixtures against Israel and an appearance before an Oireachtas committee where concerns were raised over safeguarding practices. Before the main meeting, the FAI held an extraordinary general meeting to update members of the general assembly on safeguarding.

During the AGM, officials presented the 2025 accounts showing debts down to €38.1 million from €42 million. The association also extended its revolving credit facility by €1 million to €4 million. Cash generated totalled almost €2.3 million for the year, aided by a spike in season-ticket sales.

Ticket demand was partially attributed to Ireland’s win over Hungary last November, which helped Heimir Hallgrímsson’s side reach the World Cup qualifiers earlier this year. Supporters purchased 32,000 season tickets for 2026, with the allocation selling out hours after Troy Parrott scored a hat-trick in Budapest.

Revenue dropped by €2.3 million in 2025. The association attributed that decline primarily to hosting the 2024 Europa League final between Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen at the Aviva Stadium.

Domestic Fixtures Draw Fans as Officials Join Committees

Domestic fixtures drew one million fans for a third consecutive season. The period also marked the first staging of the Women’s Development League alongside the launch of a League of Ireland Economic Impact Assessment.

Viewership of the senior women’s team jumped by 29 per cent as the squad prepares to face Poland in the World Cup playoffs next month.

In governance changes, Robert Watt stepped down from his position. Members ratified the re-elections of Caroline Rhatigan, Ursula Scully, Laura Finnegan-O’Halloran, and Packie Bonner. The general assembly also approved Paul Cooke, Úna Henry, Trevor Nulty, Aaron Murphy, and Anne O’Dwyer as members of the Audit, Risk, Compliance and Finance Committee.

Former government minister Dermot Ahern received an honorary life membership. FAI president Paul Cooke noted that Ahern played an influential role in the growth of the League of Ireland and maintained strong grassroots connections through Rock Celtic, adding that the Dundalk native was thoroughly deserving of the honour.

The senior women’s team faces Poland in the World Cup playoffs next month.

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