Surprise Withdrawal
Former MMA fighter Conor McGregor has announced he is withdrawing from the race to become President of Ireland. His decision came just hours before he was due to address several county councils considering nominations on Monday.
Nomination Requirements
Under Irish electoral rules, candidates must secure the support of either 20 Oireachtas members or four local authorities to gain a place on the ballot. Monday had been described as a “super primary” day, with 11 councils scheduled to meet.
McGregor’s Statement
In a post on X early Monday, McGregor said:
“Following careful reflection, and after consulting with my family, I am withdrawing my candidacy from this presidential race. This was not an easy decision, but it is the right one at this moment in time.”
Ongoing Commitment to Ireland
While stepping back from the contest, McGregor insisted he would continue working for Ireland:
“My commitment to Ireland does not end here. I will continue to use my international platform to promote Irish interests abroad, strengthen economic opportunities, and advocate for transparency in public life.”
Appeal to Younger Generations
In a letter to Dublin City Council last week, McGregor highlighted his global sporting record and business ventures, claiming to have “directly helped create thousands of jobs.” He also argued his online following allowed him to engage young people increasingly disillusioned with politics.
Proposed Presidential Vision
McGregor said that if elected, he would use constitutional provisions to “restore political power to the Irish citizenry,” promising a presidency that was “more visible, more relevant, and more inclusive than ever before.”
Controversial Legal History
The 36-year-old’s candidacy had faced serious criticism due to his legal controversies. Last year, McGregor was ordered to pay €250,000 in damages after a High Court jury found he had assaulted Nikita Hand in a Dublin hotel.
Appeal Rejected
In July, he lost his appeal against the jury verdict, which found in favour of Ms Hand, who had alleged rape at the Beacon Hotel in December 2018. The case remains a shadow over his public image.
Political Backlash
Tánaiste Simon Harris recently dismissed McGregor’s chances of winning a nomination. “Conor McGregor is a person who has been found responsible for rape in a civil court in Ireland. That’s a statement of fact,” he said, calling him someone who “represents the very worst of us.”
Super Primary Day
Despite McGregor’s withdrawal, Monday still remains a pivotal day in the race. Eleven county councils are scheduled to hear pitches from prospective candidates before deciding on nominations.
Council Votes Pending
Some councils will vote immediately after presentations, while others, such as Kildare, have delayed their votes until next week. Thirteen additional councils are expected to hold meetings ahead of the September 24 deadline.
The Race Tightens
With McGregor out, attention shifts to other contenders attempting to secure crucial council backing. Political observers say Monday’s meetings could significantly narrow the field of viable candidates.
Public Reaction
McGregor’s decision sparked mixed reactions online. Supporters praised his focus on family and Ireland’s reputation abroad, while critics argued his withdrawal highlighted the weakness of his campaign.
Focus on Business and Advocacy
The former UFC champion said he will now turn his attention back to his business ventures and charitable work, while continuing to campaign for transparency in Irish politics.
End of Speculation
His withdrawal ends weeks of speculation over whether he could realistically mount a campaign, with many questioning if councils would risk endorsing such a divisive figure.
Looking Ahead
With just days left before the nomination deadline, the presidential race is set to intensify, but one of its most high-profile — and controversial — figures is now officially out.
