Today, over 180 000 people play football in Irish football clubs and schools and many more people are involved as coaches, officials and volunteers. The role of the Association is to promote, foster and develop this activity.

The FAI controls the activities of all Ireland's international football teams and is affiliated to Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). Through its own affiliated bodies the FAI also organises all domestic competitions from the Eircom League and FAI Carlsberg Cup to the FAI Schools' 6-a-side competition.

The FAI is also active in the training and education of players, coaches and officials and aims to develop better facilities and support services for all those involved in the game.