Brazil's incumbent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has been officially nominated by the Workers' Party to run for a fourth overall term. The 80-year-old emphasized his strong health as he launched the campaign, with Geraldo Alckmin expected to remain his running mate. His main opponent is Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, son of jailed former president Jair Bolsonaro, whose campaign has been dogged by controversy including an AI-generated video and a diplomatic row after Argentine President Javier Milei's appearance. Latest polls show Lula leading as Brazil heads into an election on 4 October, with a potential run-off scheduled for 25 October.
Lula, 80, Officially Nominated by PT — Set to Face Flávio Bolsonaro in Tense October Election
FILE PHOTO - Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva speaks during a press conference with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung following their meeting at the presidential office. (is associated with: «Lula, 80, to face Bolsonaro's son in Brazilian presidential election») -/YNA/dpa
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has been formally nominated by the left-wing Workers' Party (PT) to seek a fourth term in office, a campaign move that sets the stage for a high-stakes presidential race this October.
"I am infinitely fitter than I was when I was 57 years old and took office for the first time. I am in top shape,"said the 80-year-old Lula to supporters at the party conference in São Paulo on Sunday, underlining his intent to run despite his age.
Under Brazil's constitution, a president may serve two consecutive terms after direct election. Lula previously governed from 2003 to 2010 and returned to the presidency in 2023; another victory would mark his fourth overall term. Geraldo Alckmin is again expected to serve as his running mate.
Lula's principal challenger is right-wing Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, the eldest son of former president Jair Bolsonaro. Flávio was nominated last week by the Liberal Party (PL). His candidacy comes amid controversy: Jair Bolsonaro was sentenced to more than 27 years in prison in connection with an attempted coup, and the Bolsonaro family maintains close political ties with former US President Donald Trump.
Although Flávio enjoys name recognition, analysts say he has not matched his father's popularity and has struggled to unite the broader conservative coalition behind his bid.
Controversy has surrounded the campaign in recent days. Argentina's President Javier Milei — frequently described as far-right and libertarian — attended a Bolsonaro party event and launched sharp attacks on both Lula and Brazil's judiciary. Milei's participation triggered a diplomatic dispute between Brasília and Buenos Aires described by officials as one of the most serious tensions between the neighbouring countries in decades.
Another flashpoint was an AI-generated video featuring Jair Bolsonaro. His defence team said the former president, who is currently under house arrest, did not authorize the clip. Electoral authorities are probing potential violations, though experts say disqualifying Flávio's candidacy appears unlikely.
According to the latest Datafolha poll, Lula currently leads his main challenger in voter support, while candidates from smaller parties lag significantly. Observers expect the campaign to sharpen as the October vote approaches.
Election Schedule: Brazil's presidential election is scheduled for 4 October. If no candidate wins an absolute majority, a run-off will be held on 25 October.
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