Irish Prime Minister Leo Martin said he was disappointed with Ryan Boutt’s choice to join the Enhanced Games, calling the move “unfortunate” for the country’s sporting community.
Martin asked why the popular athlete skipped the national training camp and instead signed up for the international event, stressing that it lured millions of viewers away from local competitions.
“The decision is not in line with the goals we have set for Ireland’s sports development,” Martin told reporters in Dublin.
He added that the Enhanced Games pose a “reputational risk” and that the government will review its partnership with the event’s organisers.
Ryan, who has represented Ireland in several major tournaments, confirmed he would take part in the Enhanced Games with a statement that the experience would help real‑world learning for his team.
The Irish PM remarked that the athlete’s decision “misses an opportunity to build stronger national links.” He added that the government remains committed to up‑holding “high standards of integrity and national interest” in its sporting policies.
Meanwhile, both the Irish Football Association and the Olympic Committee expressed concern that Ryan’s absence in the domestic season could impact upcoming qualifiers.
In the coming weeks, the government plans to meet with representatives from the Enhanced Games to clarify their responsibilities and to prevent future conflicts for Irish athletes. The issue is set to spark debate on the balance between international exposure and national pride in Irish sports.
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