McGregor is withdrawing from a race he was never actually in

The former MMA fighter had been seeking a nomination from local authorities to get on the ballot paper for the upcoming election.

However, McGregor was never nominated by 20 members of the Oireachtas or four local authorities.

He was due to meet with members of Dublin County Council and Kildare County Council today.

McGregor said he is withdrawing his candidacy from this presidential race after "careful reflection."

In a statement on X, McGregor explained that this wasn't an easy decision, but he feels like it's the right one.

He told his followers, "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."

McGregor is focusing on his work in America after a recent trip to New York resulted in unforeseen meetings.

"I remain in America and will attend to imminent unforeseen meetings that will translate to Irish jobs. Ireland has drastically changed in recent years; however, is constraint by the straitjacket of an outdated Constitution that is selectively upheld by the main Oireachtas parties, and exploited to prevent a true democratic Presidential election being contested, but rather fixed to ensure only Establishment-approved candidates may be selected on the ballot.

"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."

McGregor stressed that his "commitment to Ireland does not end here."

"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 also claimed that his "first venture into politics" sparked an important conversation.

"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. 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."

You can read his full statement here.