Flavio Bolsonaro emerges as major contender in Brazil's presidential race

1 outlet1 min read3h agoImportance 6/10

45-year-old conservative senator Flavio Bolsonaro, previously little known nationally, has been thrust into the spotlight after the former president named him his political heir.

Why it matters

Flavio Bolsonaro's sudden rise could reshape Brazil's presidential race and affect the country's political direction.

How this story developed

Sep 3 Lula runs ultra-cautious campaign as poll gap with Bolsonaro narrows
Sep 13 A new poll released in early September records Bolsonaro at 46% and Lula at 45% in a hypothetical runoff.
Sep 25 President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva signed an order banning online betting in Brazil, a move that takes effect immediately but needs congressional approval within 120 days.
Sep 28 The ban is now subject to a 120‑day congressional review.
Oct 2 Presidential debate scheduled for Oct 1 was cancelled after the electoral court barred Lula’s participation and Bolsonaro withdrew.
Oct 4 Both candidates held final campaign rallies, with Lula ending his bid in São Paulo and Flávio Bolsonaro leading a motorcycle convoy in São Paulo state.
Oct 4 Alcohol dependence in Portugal has almost quadrupled over the past ten years, with only a fifth of sufferers receiving treatment, and Brazil prepares for a closely fought presidential vote.
Oct 4 First round of Brazil’s presidential election was held.
Oct 4 First round of voting produced no candidate with over 50%, making a runoff likely.
Oct 5 First‑round results show Flávio Bolsonaro ahead with 47.1% and Lula at 45%, triggering a runoff on Oct 25.

In this story

Synthesised by Briev

Updated 05 Oct 2026, 07:36 UTC