Football for All

More about Football for All

Football For All was developed by the Irish Football Association (IFA) in 2000 to address the problem of sectarianism within football in Northern Ireland. The initiative emerged following a series of sectarian incidents in and around Northern Ireland home internationals at Windsor Park. Sectarianism is not only an issue within football in Northern Ireland many credit it as the root cause of the ‘Troubles’. Since the signing of the Peace Agreement in 1998, Northern Ireland may be seen internationally as an area at peace but the legacy of the past has left a deeply divided society continuing the cycle of sectarianism. ‘Football For All’ aims to create a fun, safe and inclusive environment throughout football in Northern Ireland. The project focuses on the positive power of football.

The project uses football as a tool to promote good relations in Northern Ireland challenging issues of sectarianism and racism at International level, domestic football level and grassroots level. The work of the FFA is focused on positive partnerships work with fans groups, community groups, statutory agencies and other organisations using football to break down barriers. FFA has been recognised as a model of good practice and it continues to grow with the support of our funders and partners.