Conor McGregor tries to rally support for Ireland’s soccer team, fans — VIDEO
One of Ireland’s favorite athletes is helping to rally support for one of the nation’s most beloved teams as they compete in Euro 2016 this month.
UFC featherweight champion Conor McGregor recorded a 2-minute long inspirational speech to hype up fans and the team as Ireland competes in the major soccer tournament in France.
Here is that rallying cry from @thenotoriousMMA to Ireland ahead of the start of #euro2016. We are here to take overhttps://t.co/wvOs5K8O4s
— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) June 13, 2016
Irish television network RTE posted the video on its Twitter account.
“This is our moment,” McGregor says in closing. “This is where we introduce the footballing world to the new Ireland. An Ireland made tough through battle. An Ireland made strong to sacrifice. An Ireland that makes no apologies for its success and no excuses for its failures. An Ireland that strives forwards against all odds. An Ireland that stands up and fights.
“Always remember, we are not here to take part, we are here to take over. Good luck boys, the country is with you.”
Ireland has advanced to the event just twice in the past and has been eliminated in the group stage each time. The Boys in Green played Sweden to a 1-1 draw on Monday and will next play Belgium on Saturday.
McGregor will rematch Nate Diaz in the welterweight main event of UFC 202 on Aug. 20 at T-Mobile Arena.
Contact reporter Adam Hill at ahill@reviewjournal.com or 702-224-5509. Follow him on Twitter: @adamhilllvrj