Mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor announced he is pulling out of the race for Ireland’s presidency, criticizing the system as biased toward establishment candidates.
Conor McGregor, the UFC champion turned political hopeful, has formally withdrawn his candidacy for President of Ireland. In a statement, McGregor lamented what he described as structural barriers that prevent outsiders from seriously contesting the highest office in the country.
He argued that Ireland is “constrained by the straitjacket of an outdated Constitution,” which, in his view, ensures that only establishment-backed figures make it onto the ballot. While his surprise entry into the political arena stirred debate about outsider influence in Irish politics, his withdrawal highlights the difficulties faced by nontraditional candidates in challenging entrenched political structures.
McGregor’s decision leaves the race open to the remaining contenders, with analysts noting his brief candidacy nevertheless tapped into public frustrations over political representation.
