Brazil Election Showdown: Lula vs. Bolsonaro Jr. in Dead Heat

Brazil's presidential race has tightened dramatically as Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, are locked in a statistical dead heat ahead of Sunday's first-round vote. The campaign was upended when both candidates abruptly withdrew from the final televised debate, leaving voters without a direct confrontation before polls open. Lula, at 81, is seeking a return to power, while Flávio Bolsonaro aims to extend his family's political dynasty. Recent polling shows Lula with a slight edge, but the race remains too close to call, particularly for a potential runoff scheduled for October 25. The candidates' absence from the debate stage has intensified scrutiny of their platforms and raised questions about their willingness to engage in public discourse. With Brazil deeply polarized, the outcome will have significant implications for the country's future direction and its role on the global stage. As Brazilians head to the polls, international observers are watching closely. The election will test the resilience of Brazil's democratic institutions and could reshape its foreign policy and economic trajectory. France 24 brings you comprehensive coverage of this high-stakes electoral battle.