Michael O'Leary set to gain 100 million euro bonus if he stays with Ryanair until 2028
- Michael O'Leary is eligible for over 100 million euros in bonuses due to Ryanair's share performance.
- The budget airline's shares exceeded the required threshold for a consecutive period, meeting a target set in 2019.
- If he remains with the airline until 2028, O'Leary will receive the share package, ensuring continued leadership stability.
In Ireland, Ryanair's chief executive, Michael O'Leary, is poised to receive a substantial share bonus exceeding 100 million euros, as the company's shares met a six-year target. O'Leary has qualified for the share options after the budget airline's stock closed above 21 euros for 28 consecutive days, reaching this milestone earlier in 2025. This requirement was part of a rule established in February 2019, under which the shares had to maintain the specified level until the year 2028 for O'Leary to benefit from the share options. The incentive is aimed at retaining leadership and ensuring the company's continued success in a highly competitive airline industry. O'Leary has been at the helm of Ryanair since 1994 and emphasized the value delivered to shareholders amidst a backdrop of high compensation figures seen in different sectors, such as professional sports. Commenting on the share options, he stated that Ryanair shareholders are receiving exceptional value. This news follows ongoing discussions about executive compensation within major companies, where soaring rewards for management can raise questions about fairness and sustainability. In light of this, O'Leary's situation not only highlights a successful business performance but also reflects broader trends regarding executive pay and value creation for shareholders. As Ryanair continues to navigate the challenges of the aviation market post-pandemic, O'Leary's tenure and the financial rewards tied to his guidance may play a pivotal role in the airline's strategic direction to maintain growth. Should he meet the outlined criteria, Ryanair will issue 10 million shares valued at approximately 111.2 million euros, solidifying his relationship and commitment to the company until 2028. Given Ryanair’s share performance, this ambitious target seems within reach, indicating confidence in the airline's operational outlook as it seeks to expand and thrive in competitively priced markets.