Former minister, soccer coach, left wing lawmaker to contest Irish presidency

Ireland's presidential election will be contested by a former government minister, a renowned Gaelic football coach and a left-wing independent lawmaker after nominations closed Wednesday, September 24, 2025, setting the stage for a three-way race to succeed Michael D. Higgins.

The final lineup pits two candidates backed by Ireland's center-right ruling coalition against a unity candidate from left-wing opposition parties.

Heather Humphreys, former social affairs minister representing the Fine Gael party, will compete against Jim Gavin, the legendary Dublin Gaelic football manager nominated by Fianna Fáil, and Catherine Connolly, an independent lawmaker supported by Sinn Féin and other left-wing parties.

"The role of president, while ceremonial, carries significant symbolic weight in Irish political life," a government spokesman said, noting the election will take place October 24, 2025.

Connolly, a former deputy speaker of parliament known for her pro-Palestinian stance, emerged as the consensus left-wing candidate after Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald considered but ultimately declined to run.

The opposition hopes Connolly can demonstrate that a left-wing bloc can challenge the center-right parties that have dominated Irish governments.

Recent polling before Sinn Féin's decision showed Humphreys leading with 22% support, followed by Gavin at 18% and Connolly at 17%.

The election will determine who succeeds Higgins, who has been notably outspoken during his two terms, particularly regarding Palestinian rights.

All major Irish political parties maintain Ireland's position as one of the European Union's most pro-Palestinian member states, though Connolly is viewed as most closely aligned with Higgins' vocal advocacy on the issue.

The presidential campaign begins immediately, with candidates expected to outline their vision for the role that serves as Ireland's head of state while performing mainly ceremonial functions.