Fans incensed at GAA ‘own goal’ with huge All-Ireland clash paywalled

Fans are disappointed that the biggest first-round matchup will not be on free to air television. RTÉ and GAA+ both aimed to secure the match - however, official first choice on streaming rights falls to GAA+ during the first round of the competition.

GAA+, founded in 2014 as part of RTÉ's streaming coverage of football and hurling, has seen an increase in subscribers and revenue since being acquired by the GAA with annual passes charging a competitive price at €120. For the fans who can't attend the match they will be disappointed at the paywall put in place.

One user on X said: "Looks like the Kerry v Donegal championship match is going to be behind a paywall on GAA+. And so the money grabbing begins again".

Another user said: "I'm a GAA+ pass holder so this has no impact on me personally… But a poor choice putting the small PPV financial gain ahead of the reach & attention of keeping the biggest game of the round free to air".

Fans have also showed their annoyance at the fact the GAA+ - RTE TV dispute has gone against the "core values" of the GAA. "Not sure how putting the most high profile game behind a paywall aligns with the core values of The GAA to 'enrich the communities we serve'. Massive own goal".

RTE's "downfall" has been another talking point of users on X after they've failed to secure the biggest game of the first round. "The RTE downfall needs to be studied. A failing broadcaster, unable to pick up the rights to an under 9 basketball match at the moment"