Conor McGregor withdraws from Presidential Election

Kenneth Fox

Conor McGregor has withdrawn from the presidential election campaign.

He posted on X on Monday morning, announcing he will no longer be seeking a nomination to appear on next month's ballot.

The former MMA fighter claims the country is constrained by the "straitjacket of an outdated Constitution", preventing him from running.

He was due to address Waterford and Wexford councils on Friday, but has told his supporters this will not be his last attempt to run for election, and he will canvass again in the future.

In a statement on X, he 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. 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."

McGregor said that the tide of change has begun, and it cannot be turned back.

"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. You will see me canvassing again in the future, fighting for your rights and representing the best interests of our nation," he said. 

Muintir na hÉireann, a chairde Ghaeil,

I recently announced my sincere and genuine intentions of running for the office of Uachtaráin na hÉireann.

I am a very passionate Gael and take great pride in our Country.

I have demonstrated this fighting Irish spirit on a world stage…

— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) September 15, 2025