Lula and Bolsonaro skip debate, dominate attacks from rivals

In Brazil's first presidential debate on August 24, 2026, frontrunners Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro were absent, making them the main targets of attacks from other candidates. Without the two leading figures, the debate became a platform for lesser-known candidates like Renan Santos to gain attention. Flávio justified his absence by saying he wanted to debate Lula, whom he accused of destroying Brazil. Meanwhile, Lula, in a separate interview aired during the debate, criticized candidates for trying to 'lacrar' (show off) on the internet. The absence of the top contenders shifted focus to the remaining candidates, with Caiado and Renan emerging as notable performers.