Brazilians will vote in a highly polarized presidential race on Sunday. Here’s what to know

Millions of Brazilians will cast their votes in a presidential election on Sunday, featuring two main contenders: incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and his former rival's son, Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro. This is the first time in four years that Brazilians will go to the polls to choose their leader, as voting is mandatory in the country.

Lula, who is already 80 years old, is running in his seventh presidential campaign, while Bolsonaro, at 45, is making his political debut. The two rivals represent contrasting ideologies, with Lula advocating for social welfare programs and environmental protection, while Bolsonaro promises to strengthen security measures and reject climate change concerns.

If no candidate secures over 50% of the vote, a runoff election will be held on October 25 between the top two contenders. Brazilians will also vote for state and federal representatives, governors, and some senators during the same election. Almost 160 million eligible voters will utilize electronic voting machines to cast their ballots, ensuring a fair and transparent process.