By Fatma Younis
Former Brazilian presidential candidate Flávio Bolsonaro has landed in the United States, according to two sources familiar with the matter, just days after losing the country's presidential runoff election.
Election Loss and Departure
Incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva defeated Bolsonaro in the runoff held on Sunday, October 25, 2026. Brazilian authorities said earlier on Tuesday they were unaware of Flávio Bolsonaro's whereabouts and were investigating whether he had fled to the US.
US Entry and Visa Arrangements
A senior State Department official confirmed the department would allow Bolsonaro and his family to enter the United States and issue them visas. Two US officials said the Trump administration had been tracking Bolsonaro's plans and expected he would attempt to exit Brazil for the US.
Ongoing Investigations
Brazilian authorities are investigating Bolsonaro over a sports betting case and a probe into the production of a movie about his father, former President Jair Bolsonaro.
Trump Comments on Election
President Donald Trump said on Monday, without evidence, that Brazil's election "looked like another rigged election, frankly." The story remains developing.
