Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Bob Geldof confirms he wasn’t ‘serious’ about running for Irish president

Bob Geldof has said he was never seriously considering an Irish presidential bid
Bob Geldof has said he was never seriously considering an Irish presidential bid (BBC/Brook Lapping)
  • Bob Geldof clarified that his rumoured bid for the Irish presidency was never a serious prospect, despite recent discussions with Taoiseach Micheál Martin.
  • Mr Martin had already identified former Dublin gaelic football manager Jim Gavin as Fianna Fáil’s preferred candidate, effectively ending any potential consideration for Geldof.
  • Geldof, 73, explained that the initial speculation arose after he expressed interest in doing 'something new, interesting and useful' following a performance.
  • He confirmed speaking with the Taoiseach but stated he had no time for a serious campaign due to existing commitments like his band's tour and album promotion.
  • Geldof also noted the official requirements for candidacy, which he was unwilling to pursue, and dismissed the idea of running in the next election, stating he would 'be dead'.
In full

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in