In a dramatic twist to Ireland’s 2025 presidential contest, pharma tycoon and entrepreneur Gareth Sheridan has withdrawn his candidacy just weeks before nominations close on September 24. The 35-year-old self-styled “outsider” entered the fray in mid-August, vowing to shake up the Áras an Uachtaráin with fresh energy and business acumen. However, facing an uphill battle for the 20 council endorsements required, Sheridan announced his exit on Saturday, September 20, citing a desire to avoid “dividing the progressive vote” and refocus on his ventures.
Sheridan’s bid, launched amid the shock withdrawal of European Commissioner Mairead McGuinness, generated buzz for its audacity. As Ireland’s “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” in 2014 and founder of Nutriband Inc. a veterinary tech firm awarded “Best New Product” that year—he positioned himself as a youthful disruptor. Canvassing at events like the Tullamore Show, he rallied with slogans like Ireland’s time is now, emphasising innovation and economic renewal. Yet, critics dismissed him as a long shot, with one commentator quipping, “Everyone seems to accept this but him.”
His suspension of CEO duties at Nutriband to pursue the presidency underscored the gamble, but limited traction among councillors—despite securing four initial backers—proved fatal. Sheridan, who holds a B.Sc. in Business from Dublin Institute of Technology, leaves the race wide open.
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