On March 17, 2025, former UFC champion Conor McGregor visited the White House for a private meeting with President Donald Trump as part of the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The meeting between the two high-profile figures underscores McGregor’s rising political aspirations and his growing ties with the Trump administration.
McGregor’s White House Visit
McGregor was warmly welcomed at the White House and made a surprise appearance at a press briefing, where he was introduced by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. During his remarks, McGregor spoke about his concerns regarding Ireland’s current political climate, expressing frustration over government policies and lack of accountability. Calling America Ireland’s ‘big sibling,’ McGregor emphasized the importance of U.S.-Ireland relations while criticizing Ireland’s leadership for failing to address key national issues.
Private Meeting with President Trump
During his closed-door meeting with President Trump, McGregor reportedly discussed Ireland’s governance, immigration policies, and his own political ambitions. While specific details of their conversation were not made public, the visit highlighted Trump’s continued engagement with influential figures from across various industries, including sports.
McGregor’s Political Aspirations and Legal Challenges
McGregor’s visit comes amid growing speculation that he may consider running for the presidency of Ireland. However, his political aspirations have been overshadowed by legal controversies. In November 2024, a Dublin jury found McGregor civilly liable for a 2018 sexual assault case, resulting in a judgment requiring him to pay nearly €250,000 to the victim. The fighter is currently appealing the decision.
Reactions from Irish Officials
McGregor’s meeting with Trump has sparked mixed reactions from Irish officials. Prime Minister Micheál Martin distanced himself from McGregor’s comments, stating that they “do not reflect the views of the Irish people.” Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Simon Harris acknowledged Trump’s right to invite guests to the White House but emphasized that McGregor holds no official mandate to represent Ireland.
McGregor’s St. Patrick’s Day visit to the White House has further cemented his association with Trump and conservative political circles. As he navigates his public persona, legal battles, and potential political aspirations, his interactions with Trump suggest that he is looking to expand his influence beyond combat sports. Whether this meeting signals a deeper political alliance remains to be seen, but it has certainly positioned McGregor as a controversial figure in both sports and politics.