Polls open in Portugal for first presidential run-off in 40 years

Al JazeeraEN 2 min read 100% complete by By News AgenciesFebruary 8, 2026 at 10:10 AM

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Portugal is holding its first presidential run-off election in 40 years on February 8, 2026, between Socialist Party leader Antonio Jose Seguro and Andre Ventura, leader of the nationalist Chega party. The election was triggered after neither candidate secured a majority in the first round held in January. While Seguro is favored to win, the far-right's performance will be closely monitored. The winner will assume the largely ceremonial role of president. The vote is occurring amidst severe storms and flooding, which have led to the postponement of voting in 14 constituencies, affecting nearly 32,000 people. Ventura's request to postpone the entire election was denied.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Spain 40% Presidential Election 50% Socialist Party 60% Chega 60% Antonio Jose Seguro ×270% Andre Ventura ×470% Portugal ×490%

Keywords

presidential election 100% portugal 90% run-off election 80% far right 70% socialist party 60% storms 60% andre ventura 50% antonio jose seguro 50% nationalist party 40% flooding 40%