Brief

Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro head to runoff as Brazil votes Sunday

The runoff sees incumbent Lula trying to halt a Bolsonaro family return while Flávio Bolsonaro promises constitutional changes and a pardon for his father.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 25 Oct 2026 15:06:52 GMT

Brazilians are heading to the polls on Sunday, Oct. 25, for a runoff between incumbent left‑wing President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and far‑right senator Flávio Bolsonaro, according to the Guardian.

What happened

The first round earlier this month produced a narrow gap of less than 2% between the two candidates, the closest margin ever recorded. Flávio Bolsonaro, 45, a longtime congressman and son of former president Jair Bolsonaro, surprised analysts by winning the first round despite trailing most polls. Lula, 81, has focused his runoff campaign on voter turnout, noting record‑high abstention that hurt his base.

What the reports add

The Guardian notes that Bolsonaro began the runoff campaign with a lead and the backing of most eliminated candidates, but his poll numbers have since stalled while Lula has gained ground. It also highlights that Bolsonaro has pledged to pardon his father if elected and to "change the constitution and re‑democratise this country". Lula’s campaign, by contrast, stresses defending democracy and social rights.

What was said

Voter Nuno Rau, 63, told the Guardian, "We’re facing two completely different projects for the country… One points towards the end of social rights and the end of democracy itself; on the other side is someone who fought for income distribution and free public education." Aparecida Moreira, a 62‑year‑old lawyer, said she will vote for Bolsonaro because of his "iron fist" security policy, including plans for five "mega‑prisons" and chemical castration for rapists.

How it came about

Earlier coverage by Felo News reported the candidates' final debate on Oct. 23, where Bolsonaro led the first round with 47% to Lula’s 45% and discussed wages, security and health policy. A week earlier, Felo noted Lula’s rally in Rio framing his bid as a defence against a possible Bolsonaro family return, while another piece highlighted Bolsonaro’s poll surge and the family’s enduring political influence.

Key facts

Brazil's presidential runoff is on Oct. 25 between Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro. (theguardian.com)
The first‑round gap was less than 2%, the narrowest ever recorded. (theguardian.com)
Flávio Bolsonaro has promised to pardon his father if elected. (theguardian.com)
Lula is focusing on increasing voter turnout after record‑high abstention. (theguardian.com)