The majority of male inter-county Gaelic footballers are opposed to further significant rule changes but are broadly supportive of the introduction of Friday night matches.

According to the Gaelic Players Association (GPA)'s 2026 member survey report, which was launched on Wednesday, 76% of male players are against further rule changes following the implementation of the Football Review Committee (FRC)'s tweaks in 2025.

While the FRC's suite of rule enhancements - which included the introduction of two-point scores and the 'three-up' rule - have been widely viewed as a success, the Kevin McStay-led Expert Advisory Group are trialling further changes.

They include a limit on consecutive handpasses, banning fisted points and introducing a four-point goal and are currently being trialled in third-level leagues.

However, the majority of players are not in favour of more upheaval, with 23.5% suggesting that only small tweaks are required after two seasons with the FRC-led alterations.

In hurling, there is support for three possible changes, including the maor foirne (66%) and an increase of substitutions from five to seven (58%). A slight majority (51%) want to see a two-point sideline cut while 91% are against a four-point goal.

When asked to outline the biggest problem in hurling, 44% of respondents said the gap between strong and weak counties is too wide.

In terms of Friday night games, 63% of male footballers and hurlers are supportive if they are not required to take time off work or are compensated if they do.

"It has never been put as a formal proposal to players, so this is the first time that we've asked the question," said GPA chief Tom Parsons.

"At least we have data now. I think what's important is that, where is the stumbling block? Because if it's designed where players can take a day off work, and that will be compensated, then we have a real opportunity to actually go for it."

According to Parsons' executive summary, "equality of standards" is a clear theme.

"Among male players familiar with the Charter, 88% reported receiving their full entitlements," wrote Parsons.

"For female players, core match-day provisions are generally strong, but significant gaps remain in the training and performance environment. Both male and female lower-tier players consistently report lower provision.

"Female players identify the timing of expenses as an immediate priority: 70% report at least one significant issue with the current two-instalment system and 94% support monthly reimbursement in 2027.

"78% of all players support equalising one minimum standards Squad Charter for all inter-county players post integration."

Also, 86% of players feel they should commercially benefit from their name, image and likeness.

The GPA's survey attracted responses from 3,555 inter-county players across men's and ladies football, hurling and camogie.