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12h ago

Conor McGregor Withdraws From Irish Presidential Race

His exit underscores how strict nomination thresholds, coupled with a damaging civil judgment, constrained an outsider bid.

Irish professional mixed martial artist and businessman Conor McGregor speaks from the White House briefing room podium in Washington, DC, on March 17, 2025. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP) (Photo by JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images)
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Overview

  • The 37-year-old announced the decision on X, citing careful reflection and consultation with his family.
  • He stepped back hours before scheduled pitches to Dublin City Council and Kildare County Council, having not secured nominations from 20 Oireachtas members or four local authorities.
  • He condemned the eligibility rules as a “straitjacket” that favors establishment candidates and vowed this is only the beginning of his political journey.
  • His long-shot campaign drew scant polling support and minimal institutional backing despite attention from Elon Musk and Donald Trump, while a civil liability ruling and failed appeal hurt his standing.
  • The Oct. 24 ballot currently includes Heather Humphreys, Jim Gavin and independent Catherine Connolly, with Sinn Féin yet to decide on running a candidate.