The aim of the radical plan for the football championship, approved 25 years ago, was threefold: to guarantee counties a minimum of two championship outings, generate added interest, and increase the chances of a wider title spread.
to guarantee counties a minimum of two championship outings, to generate added interest in the All-Ireland series by almost doubling the number of games and to increase the chances of a wider title spread.
However, the outcome has been the opposite, with the gap ever widening as even fewer counties win All-Ireland and league titles under the changed formats.
Kerry players and officials celebrate with the Sam Maguire cup after victory over Donegal in the All-Ireland SFC final at Croke Park in July.
Author's summary: Widening gap in titles won.