Conor McGregor has officially withdrawn from the race for the Irish presidency, announcing his decision in a lengthy statement released at 3:30 a.m. Irish time on X. While he is stepping back from this particular election, the former UFC champion emphasized his commitment to remain active in politics and to advocate for critical issues affecting Ireland.
Initially, McGregor planned a campaign to secure nominations from four local councils to run as an Independent candidate. However, while currently in the United States for meetings, he reassessed his priorities, leading to the decision to exit the presidential contest. McGregor aims to return to the octagon next year, further influencing his choice to pause his political aspirations.
In his statement, McGregor articulated his ongoing dedication to Ireland and the importance of political discourse. He stated, “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.”
Commitment to Political Engagement
Despite his withdrawal, McGregor insists that he will continue to engage with significant political issues in Ireland, such as immigration and government budgeting. He expressed that his desire to promote Irish interests abroad and strengthen economic opportunities remains steadfast.
“This campaign has sparked an important conversation about democracy in Ireland about who gets to stand, who gets to choose, and how we can ensure that the presidency truly belongs to the people,” he added. McGregor stressed that this dialogue will persist, even as he steps back from the immediate race.
Looking ahead, McGregor is only 35 years old and will still be a viable candidate for the next presidential election in 2032. His political ambitions remain in the spotlight, bolstered by endorsements from notable figures such as Elon Musk and his connections with former US President Donald Trump.
A New Chapter in Politics
McGregor conveyed optimism about his political journey, stating, “The tide of change has begun, and it cannot be turned back. Although I have chosen to withdraw this round, meaningful progress has been made.” He reassured the Irish people, “You will see me canvassing again in the future, fighting for your rights and representing the best interests of our nation.”
His commitment to serving the Irish public extends beyond the presidential race. McGregor plans to use his international platform to advocate for Ireland socially and economically. “This is a marathon. Not a sprint!” he concluded, emphasizing that his political career is far from over.
As McGregor steps away from the presidential race, his impact on Irish politics is likely to continue. His engagement with vital issues and his desire to influence public life suggest that he will remain a prominent figure in both sports and politics in the years to come.