McGregor enters Irish Presidential race with anti-immigration focus

Former UFC star Conor McGregor has announced his intention to run for the Irish presidency, positioning himself as an opponent of the European Union's migration pact.

The 36-year-old, who has become a polarizing figure in Ireland, shared his decision on social media, stating that he was the only candidate willing to challenge the government on immigration policies.

“Who else will stand up to the Government and oppose this bill? Any other Presidential candidate they attempt to put forward will be of no resistance to them. I will!” McGregor wrote to his 46 million Instagram followers.

His announcement comes days after he appeared at the White House alongside former U.S. President Donald Trump on St. Patrick's Day, drawing criticism in Ireland.

During the visit, McGregor echoed anti-immigration rhetoric, claiming that the Irish government had “abandoned the voices” of its people and that rural communities were being overwhelmed by immigrants.

McGregor’s stance has sparked backlash, with Irish leader Micheál Martin saying his remarks did not reflect the views of the Irish people or the spirit of St. Patrick's Day.

Despite his fame as a fighter, McGregor has become a controversial figure, not just for his political views but also for legal battles, including accusations of sexual assault, which he has denied.

A civil lawsuit filed in January accused McGregor of sexual battery during the 2023 NBA Finals in Miami, but prosecutors declined to press charges.

In a separate case last year, a Dublin court ordered him to pay nearly €250,000 (Sh35 million) to a woman who alleged he had assaulted her in a hotel in 2018.

McGregor testified that the encounter was consensual and vowed to appeal the verdict.

His move into politics follows years of vocal opposition to immigration. He has previously expressed support for protests against Ireland’s migration policies, which remain a contentious issue.

The country, with a population of just over 5 million, recorded 141,600 new arrivals in the year leading up to April 2023, the highest figure in 16 years, according to official statistics.

McGregor has pledged to put the EU migration pact to a referendum if elected, declaring, “Although I oppose greatly this pact, it is neither mine nor government’s choice to make. It is the people of Ireland’s choice! Always!”

However, his presidential bid faces major hurdles.

The role is largely ceremonial, and candidates need the backing of at least 20 lawmakers or four county councils to get on the ballot.

With many Irish politicians openly criticizing his views, securing those endorsements will be a challenge.

Ireland's next presidential election must take place by November 11, 2025.