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Conor McGregor quits Irish presidential race with lengthy statement in the middle of the night

Originally posted on Bloody Elbow | By Donagh Corby | Last updated Sep 15, 2025 3:54 AM ET

Conor McGregor has insisted that he will continue to participate in politics despite quitting his efforts to win the Irish presidency.

Former two-weight UFC champion McGregor was due to start a charm offensive this week in an effort to earn himself a nomination from the required four local councils as an Independent candidate. However, he is currently in America and now plans to stay there for further meetings.

And after weighing up his options, with a return to the octagon planned for next year, the Irishman opted to pull out of this race. Instead, he insists, he will continue to stay politically active and will consider a further political career.

Conor McGregor quits Irish presidential race

In a lengthy statement released at 3:30am Irish time on X, Conor McGregor posted that he is withdrawing from consideration for this year’s Irish presidential election.

He insisted that he will not be leaving the discussion surrounding major political issues in Ireland, including his stance on immigration and government budgeting.

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“Following careful reflection, and after consulting with my family, I am withdrawing my candidacy from this presidential race,” McGregor wrote halfway through a lengthy statement. “This was not an easy decision, but it is the right one at this moment in time.

“While I will not contest this election, my commitment to Ireland does not end here. I will continue to serve my people by using my international platform to promote Irish interests abroad, to strengthen our economic opportunities, and to advocate for transparency and responsibility in public life at home.

“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. That conversation will not end with my withdrawal.”

Conor McGregor insists he will continue political career after leaving Irish presidential race

He claims that his political career is not over, which is believable given he will only be 44 years old during the 2032 election which will be the next time the Irish presidency is contested. McGregor was endorsed by Elon Musk, and has a close relationship with US President Donald Trump.

“The tide of change has begun, and it cannot be turned back,” McGregor continued. “My first venture into politics, and although I have chosen to withdraw this round, meaningful progress has been made. I want to assure the people of Ireland that this will not be my last election.

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“You will see me canvassing again in the future, fighting for your rights and representing the best interests of our nation. This is not the end, but the beginning of my political journey. I am driven by a commitment to improve lives, defend rights, and serve the Irish people with dedication and integrity.

“I will continue to serve my people on the global stage lobbying for Ireland’s best interest’s socially and economically – of that there is no doubt. This is a marathon. Not a sprint!”

This article first appeared on Bloody Elbow and was syndicated with permission.

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