Portugal presidential election: far right expected to reach the runoff

Sunday 18 January 2026 - 08:00

By: Sahili Aya

Portugal presidential election: far right expected to reach the runoff

Portugal is heading to a decisive presidential election as voters prepare to cast their ballots in the first round, amid growing expectations that the far right could reach the second round for the first time in the country’s democratic history.

According to recent opinion polls, André Ventura, leader of the far-right party Chega, is positioned as a strong contender and could even finish first in the initial vote. Despite this momentum, analysts suggest that his chances of winning the runoff remain limited, given the traditional voting patterns observed in second-round presidential contests.

The election features a record number of eleven candidates, reflecting a fragmented political landscape. Several figures are competing for a place in the second round, including candidates supported by the governing right-wing camp, liberal forces, and independent personalities. The outcome of the first round is therefore expected to be highly competitive and uncertain.

The winner of the election will succeed the outgoing president, who was elected twice in the first round. Historically, Portugal has rarely required a second round to choose its head of state, making the current scenario particularly noteworthy.

While the Portuguese president holds no direct executive power, the role carries significant institutional influence. The head of state can act as a mediator during political crises and has the authority to dissolve parliament and call early legislative elections, a power that gives the presidency substantial political weight.

The rise of the far right in this election follows its strong performance in recent legislative polls, where it consolidated its position as the main opposition force. As a result, the presidential vote is being closely watched both domestically and internationally.