Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary. Photograph: Brian Lawless/PA WireThat verbal spat between Elon Musk and Michael O’Leary was more than just a verbal spat: it was also in the end a clash of cultures and of mutually estranged ways of thinking. First O’Leary called Musk an “idiot”, while also taking a sideswipe at serial “liar” Donald Trump. I just got lucky a couple of times.”[ The EU should channel Michael O’Leary when dealing with Donald TrumpOpens in new window ]It’s striking that even when being modest, O’Leary avoids prideful extremes. “I am strongly in favor of common sense, common honesty, and common decency.

Source: The Irish Times January 23, 2026 20:31 UTC