Bolsonaro leads in first-round vote of Brazil's presidential race, Lula says will win in ‘extra time’

Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro, the son of former far-right president, secured 47% of the vote in the first round of the presidential election, narrowly edging out incumbent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who received 45% of the votes. The surprise result, contrary to opinion polls, has set the stage for a run-off on October 25, marking a potential shift towards the right in Latin America, similar to the trend championed by US President Donald Trump.

Bolsonaro, who was previously unknown nationally, capitalized on his family name to gain support among Brazil's conservative base, despite a campaign marred by scandals and negative campaigning. Lula, the 80-year-old incumbent, acknowledged the unexpected first-round defeat but insisted the race was far from over, vowing to win over the Brazilian people in the run-off.

The election has taken on a heightened significance due to Lula's previous political and personal setbacks, including electoral defeats, prison time, a corruption conviction (later annulled), and health issues. Despite these challenges, Lula remains determined to secure an unprecedented fourth presidential term.