Former Wexford manager slams ‘ludicrous’ decision to allow players weekend off for Electric Picnic

'We're giving up a free weekend to go to a festival!'

Former Wexford manager Paul Carley says Wexford GAA’s decision to allow players the weekend off for Electric Picnic was “ludicrous.”

The fifth round of the hurling championship had been marked for the weekend of August 29 to 31, but the schedule was put back a week following Wexford senior hurling and football early exits.

Wexford chairman John Kenny said they received a lengthy list of requests to change fixtures for the same weekend in 2024, due to the festival, and this played a big part in their decision to change the schedule this year.

The festival was held in Stradbally, Co Laois, from August 29 to 31.

According to the Irish Independent, the move reportedly left many Wexford clubs bemused, given the recent free weekend for the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, held in Wexford.

Speaking on the Wexford Hurling Podcast, Carley said: "I think it was the most ludicrous decision I’ve ever seen or heard of.

“You could have a team knocked out now in a county semi-final on penalties because we don’t have a free weekend and we’re giving up a free weekend to go to a festival.

“I just don’t think it makes any sense and it didn’t make any sense at the time. These lads live a good life, it’s not a case that they’re sacrificing every weekend or anything like that.

"But imagine now if you’re any of the four teams left and you’re put out on penalties because you don’t have a free weekend."