Flávio Bolsonaro arrives in Miami after fleeing Brazil following his presidential election defeat to Lula on October 28, 2026
MIAMI: Defeated Brazilian presidential candidate Flávio Bolsonaro arrived in Miami on Wednesday, October 28, after fleeing Brazil following his election loss to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. His departure came despite a Supreme Court order requiring him to surrender his passports.
The 45-year-old senator travelled with his wife and two daughters through Argentina and Ecuador before reaching Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport aboard a private aircraft. US authorities had granted visas to the family ahead of their arrival.
Court Order and Corruption Investigations
Bolsonaro left Brazil as authorities investigated allegations involving corruption, money laundering and financial misconduct. Brazil’s Supreme Court had ordered him to surrender his Brazilian passports by Tuesday.
However, reports indicate that Bolsonaro used an Italian passport to enter Argentina before continuing his journey to the United States. He denies wrongdoing and claims the investigations are politically motivated.
His departure has raised questions about compliance with Brazil’s judicial orders and the potential consequences of leaving the country while investigations remain active.
Bolsonaro Rejects Lula’s Election Victory
Bolsonaro lost Sunday’s presidential runoff to incumbent Lula, who secured approximately 51.8% of the vote against Bolsonaro’s 48.2%.
The defeated candidate has refused to recognise the result and alleged electoral irregularities without presenting substantiated evidence. On Thursday, he reportedly declared himself Brazil’s legitimate president and pledged to lead the opposition from Miami.
US President Donald Trump welcomed Bolsonaro’s arrival and questioned the election outcome. International leaders and the Organization of American States have recognised Lula’s victory.
Impact to Expect
Bolsonaro’s arrival in Miami could deepen political divisions in Brazil and complicate relations between Brasília and Washington. His journey through Argentina may also create diplomatic tensions between Lula’s government and Argentine President Javier Milei.
Brazilian authorities could face mounting pressure to clarify the legal consequences of his departure, while Bolsonaro’s continued rejection of the election result threatens further political uncertainty.
