McDonald’s has announced the return of its Fun Football Centres in Northern Ireland for 2025.
The popular McDonald’s Fun Football Centres are delivered in partnership with the Irish FA and Irish FA Foundation and provide children in Northern Ireland with the opportunity to try football for the first time.
The four-week sessions are completely free and are available to all children aged between five and 11.
Legendary Northern Ireland goalkeeper Pat Jennings, a McDonald’s Fun Football Ambassador, said: “Through the years I have witnessed first-hand the significant impact that McDonald’s Fun Football has had, and continues to have, on the lives of young people in Northern Ireland.
“Fun Football introduces children and families from all communities and backgrounds to interactive coaching sessions and events. Young boys and girls can learn about our great game in a fun, relaxed and inclusive environment.”
McDonald’s franchisee Paddy Cusack said McDonald’s is passionate about feeding and fostering communities and supporting local families.
He added: “We are very proud of our partnership with the Irish FA on the Fun Football programme. It is so important to us and highlights our commitment to fostering the development of football for all in Northern Ireland.
“It is fantastic to see that McDonald’s has reached 500,000 children across the UK since the new Fun Football programme launched in 2022.”
Delivering a message at the 2024 McDonald’s Irish FA Grassroots Awards ceremony, Gordon Lyons MLA, Minister for Communities, said: “Grassroots football is about much more than what happens on the pitch. It teaches our children important values like teamwork and respect – lessons that shape communities and live long beyond the final whistle.
“The important work being carried out by McDonald’s and the Irish FA ensures that the game continues to thrive at every level, and that all young people in Northern Ireland, regardless of their background or ability, have the chance to play football.”
This month 13 venues across Northern Ireland will host the first batch of the free four-week Fun Football sessions this year. They will continue to launch across several locations in Northern Ireland throughout 2025.
