Elon Musk and Conor McGregor form unlikely alliance shaking up Ireland’s presidential race

Conor McGregor has formally launched his campaign to become the next president of Ireland, and now he has gained a high-profile supporter in billionaire Elon Musk. On Thursday in Dublin, Conor McGregor posted a video outside Irish government buildings declaring he will run in the upcoming October 24 elections.

The UFC fighter, 37, stressed that he wants to tackle Ireland’s child homelessness crisis and also criticized the current government for failing its people. Within hours, Musk reposted McGregor’s video on X, adding his own message of support.

Elon Musk and Donald Trump show support for Conor McGregor

McGregor’s video quickly gained worldwide attention after Elon Musk shared it on X with Irish flag emojis. Musk then replied, “No one will fight harder for the people of Ireland than Conor McGregor!” His endorsement gave Conor McGregor’s campaign an immediate boost on social media.

The UFC star has also formed ties with U.S. President Donald Trump. Conor McGregor invited Donald Trump to visit his Dublin pub, The Black Forge Inn, this November. Sharing the invite on Instagram, he promised Trump a “unique, true Irish experience.” McGregor has praised Trump in the past, calling him a “standout president.”As of mid-2025, Conor McGregor’s fortune is estimated at $200 million, with businesses in real estate and beverages.

But despite his fame and backing from Musk and Trump, political experts say his path to Ireland’s highest office remains very uncertain.Also Read: “I Was Petrified Of You”: Chris Evert Shocks US Open Crowd With Surprising Words For Cliff Drysdale After 46 Years At ESPN

Conor McGregor says he will run for president of Ireland despite nomination battle

In his video posted on Thursday in Dublin, Conor McGregor said he is determined to appear on the ballot for the Irish Presidential election scheduled for October 24, 2025. Standing outside government offices, Conor McGregor described himself as “a master of martial arts, a solution-driven man” and promised to fight for Irish citizens. He accused the government of taking away people’s “peace of mind, security, and hope for the future.”Conor McGregor also pointed to child homelessness in Ireland, saying the problem has reached “levels unprecedented.”

He urged local councillors to back his campaign, telling them, “If you are a councillor who feels ignored, then I ask you to stand with me. Nominate me, and I will give you the platform to be heard.”But Conor McGregor faces a major hurdle. Under Irish law, candidates need the support of 20 members of parliament (Oireachtas) or four local councils to qualify for the ballot. So far, Conor McGregor has not secured any nominations, and the deadline to do so is September 24. Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien dismissed his chances, saying Conor McGregor is “not fit to hold that office,” especially compared with the legacy of current president Michael D. Higgins.