Gaelic football is one of the national games of Ireland where it is believed to have originated in the 16th century. In this 15-a-side field game the ball is played by hand and foot, on and off the ground.

A goal, worth three points, is scored when the ball is kicked or punched between the goal posts and under the crossbar. If the ball goes between the posts but over the crossbar one point is scored.

The All-Ireland Championships, founded in 1887, are staged each year and the final is played at Dublin's Croke Park in September. Football is played throughout Ireland. Traditionally strong footballing counties include Dublin, Meath, Cork, Kerry and Mayo.