Conor McGregor, the former UFC champion and notorious public figure, has officially announced his candidacy for the presidency of Ireland, a surprisingly bold move coming on the heels of a controversial trip to the White House. As he stated in an Instagram post on March 21, 2025, McGregor declared his intention to challenge the government's stance on the EU Migration Pact and advocate for a public referendum on the issue.
“Ireland must fully implement the EU Migration Pact by June 12, 2026,” McGregor wrote. “So between now and 12 June 2026, several pieces of legislation have to be passed by both Houses of the Oireachtas & then signed by the President.” He went on to emphasize the need for citizen input: “Who else will stand up to Government and oppose this bill? Any other Presidential candidate they attempt to put forward will be of no resistance to them. I will!”
This announcement is more than just a political maneuver; it also positions McGregor against an increasingly polarizing issue in Irish politics—immigration. His criticism of government officials agreeing with the pact, which aims to reshape migrant and asylum policies across the European Union, showcases his populist approach. He boldly proclaimed, “Although I oppose greatly this pact, it is neither mine nor the government’s choice to make. It is the people of Ireland’s choice! Always! That is a true democracy!”
McGregor’s return to the public spotlight is particularly poignant given his tumultuous past. In November 2024, he was found civilly liable for the sexual assault of a woman, Nikita Hand, in a Dublin hotel in December 2018. The jury awarded Hand nearly $257,000 (approximately 250,000 euros) in damages, a judgment that McGregor is currently appealing. This background raises questions about how effectively he can campaign and connect with the electorate.
The duality of McGregor's public image—celebrated sports icon versus controversial figure—adds layers to his presidential aspirations. His endorsement by prominent names, such as Donald Trump, during his March visit to the White House further complicates his image in a country where the political landscape is delicately balanced. The response from Irish leaders has been one of clear disapproval; Prime Minister Micheál Martin condemned McGregor’s comments as not truly reflective of Irish values.
"Our government has long since abandoned the voices of the people of Ireland, and it's high time that America is made aware of what's going on in Ireland," McGregor urged at the White House, criticizing what he called a government of "zero action and zero accountability." He has also said that due to rising immigration levels, “Ireland is at the cusp of potentially losing its Irishness,” a statement that incited backlash from various political factions.
As McGregor embraces his controversial stance on immigration, he plans to run on a platform that includes calling for a public vote on the EU Migration Pact. He insists that this engagement is crucial, and he remains confident in his abilities to galvanize public support. But how do the numbers stack up?
Political analysts warn that McGregor faces a steep challenge ahead. According to Gail McElroy, a political science professor at Trinity College Dublin, the prospect of McGregor securing the necessary nominations is “close to zero.” Candidates for the Irish presidency must receive backing from at least 20 members of the Oireachtas (either house of parliament) or four local councils. Many believe that his controversial past will deter supportive lawmakers from aligning with him.
McGregor has been a polarizing figure not just for his antics within the octagon but due to legal troubles that have persisted through his career. Not only was he embroiled in the civil lawsuit, but he has also faced investigations for allegations ranging from sexual assault to public altercations. In one high-profile instance, he attacked a bus transporting fellow fighters, which garnered significant media attention and condemnation.
Despite his controversial past, McGregor has sought to reshape his public persona, often presenting himself as the “only logical choice” for Irish leadership. His blend of celebrity status, polarizing politics, and burgeoning populist sentiments resonates with a segment of the electorate frustrated with traditional politicians. However, many in Ireland remain cautious about endorsing a candidate with such a history.
“McGregor is toxic in Ireland,” stated political analysts amidst polling data indicating that only a scant 8% of voters expressed willingness to cast their ballot for him, while a staggering 89% reported they would not. This imploring statistic implies the uphill battle McGregor faces as he attempts to carve a permanent political niche.
As the election date draws closer—set for November 11, 2025—McGregor's journey will undoubtedly be watched closely. His combination of celebrity, legal controversies, and rising nationalist rhetoric will make for an unpredictable campaign trail. Whether he can successfully translate his fighting spirit into electoral success remains to be seen.
McGregor's political aspirations coincide with shifting sentiments within Ireland regarding immigration policy, as the country grapples with rising immigration levels and national identity. Reports indicate that more than 141,600 immigrants arrived in Ireland in just the last year, a factor that complicates McGregor's narrative as he seeks to capture the sentiments of frustrated voters.
Time will tell if Conor McGregor’s transition from octagon to political arena will resonate with Irish voters or serve as a mere footnote in a life that has already seen its fair share of drama. With the stakes higher than ever, McGregor is adamant about making his voice heard, reminding the electorate of their power, especially regarding the future of their country. “This is the future of Ireland with me as president. All citizens of Ireland to have a voice and a choice on their future!” he declared.
