Conor McGregor’s visit to the White House on St Patrick’s Day has drawn sharp criticism from the Irish public, with Taoiseach Micheál Martin receiving a flood of messages condemning the UFC star’s meeting with former US President Donald Trump.
Documents released under a Freedom of Information request show dozens of emails from citizens upset at what they called McGregor’s “hijacking” of Irish identity during his self-arranged appearance on March 17.
The visit, which was not sanctioned or supported by the Irish Government, included comments from McGregor about immigration and crime in Dublin — claims later found to be based on discredited sources.
One person wrote: “You did a great job on your recent visit to the White House… but I’m furious with that clown McGregor hijacking our identity. He doesn’t speak for us, please don’t let this go!”
Many messages also referenced a recent High Court civil case in which McGregor was found liable for the 2018 rape of Nikita Ní Laimhín. He is currently appealing the outcome.
One lengthy letter accused the Government of allowing McGregor to “insult not just those of us in Ireland, but the 75+ million people worldwide who hold their Irish heritage close.” The writer called for a direct condemnation of McGregor’s appearance, saying: “This was not a misstep… it was deliberate, calculated, and a disgrace.”
There was also criticism over President Trump’s praise of McGregor during a meeting with Mr Martin days earlier. “I do happen to like your fighter,” Trump said, adding that McGregor had “the best tattoos I’ve ever seen.”
A small number of emails supported McGregor’s stance on immigration, with one stating: “While his visit and remarks were self-initiated, a significant portion of the Irish public agrees with his message far more than with any of you.”
Another said the President’s decision to meet McGregor “should be a wake-up call” for Irish leaders.
Despite this, some messages praised Mr Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris for distancing themselves from the controversial visit.
One supporter wrote: “Thank you for being so clear and unequivocal about it — he does not speak for me.”
Another added: “By inviting McGregor to the White House, Trump deliberately undermined the Irish Government and public.”
McGregor’s visit came on a politically sensitive day for Ireland–US relations, and as both countries mark deep cultural ties during annual St Patrick’s Day events.
