The International Rules Series is expected to return to Ireland in 2027 after a ten-year absence, with the first games set to take place in the country. The series, a unique format of Gaelic football and Australian rules football, will see Ireland host the matches, marking a significant moment for the sport. The 2028 edition will then move to Australia, continuing the biennial cycle.
Kobe McDonald, an Irish AFL star, is among the potential players who could participate in the 2027 games. The return of the series is seen as a boost for Irish sports, offering a platform for local talent to compete against international teams. The event will be a key moment for the Gaelic Athletic Association, which has long championed the sport.
The last time Ireland hosted the International Rules Series was in 2017. Since then, the series has been held in other countries, with the most recent games taking place in Australia. The decision to bring the event back to Ireland reflects growing interest in the sport and the desire to promote it domestically. The 2027 games will be the first in a new cycle, with the 2028 edition in Australia.
The return of the series is part of broader efforts to strengthen Ireland’s sporting profile on the international stage. The event will also provide an opportunity for local teams to gain exposure and for fans to experience a unique blend of Gaelic and Australian football traditions. Organizers are currently finalizing details for the 2027 games, with the hope of attracting a large audience and further boosting the sport’s popularity.
