From The Rio Times · Rafael Silva Santos · · 2m
Rio Governor-Elect Wins After Electoral Court Voided Votes
Rio's governor-elect Douglas Ruas wins first-round election after court voids 274,411 votes for rival Anthony Garotinho.
In brief
Rio's governor-elect Douglas Ruas wins first-round election after court voids 274,411 votes for rival Anthony Garotinho. Rio de Janeiro's governor-elect Douglas Ruas won the first round of the 2026 election with 50.88% of valid votes after Brazil's Supreme Electoral Court voided 274,411 votes for Anthony Garotinho…
Rio Governor-Elect
Rio de Janeiro has a governor-elect, Douglas Ruas of the Liberal Party, after the electoral court voided votes for a rival and gave him a first-round win.
Electoral Court Ruling
The city's regional court recounted votes on 10 October and put Douglas Ruas at 50.88% of valid votes, enough to win without a runoff.
Rival Withdraws
Runner-up Eduardo Paes withdrew after Supreme Court Justice Cristiano Zanin refused to overturn the ruling.
Airport Management Change
Spain's airport operator Aena took over management of Rio's Galeão international airport on 6 October 2026.
Airport Auction Details
It won the auction on 30 March with a bid of R$2.9 billion (about US$570 million), and the concession runs to 2039.
Carnival 2027 Dates
Carnival 2027 starts with the lower-division Série Ouro schools on 5 and 6 February, followed by top-division Special Group parades on 7, 8 and 9 February.
Carnival Ticket Prices
Grandstand tickets cost R$250 (about US$49) a night, with half-price tickets at R$125.
Rio Open 2027 Dates
The Rio Open tennis tournament runs from 13 to 21 February 2.027 at the Jockey Club.
Rio Open Ticket Prices
General ticket sales opened on 13 October 2026, with prices from R$70 to R$990 (about US$14 to US$195).
Rio Open Stadium Expansion
The main court grows from 6,200 to 9,500 seats for the 2027 tournament.
Rio Population
Rio de Janeiro has about 6.2 million people, and its state has about 16 million.
Prediction Markets
Kalshi prediction markets show Douglas Ruas at 99% chance of winning the governorship.
What to Watch Next
Rio's voters take part in the presidential runoff on Sunday 25 October, and Ruas takes office as governor on 6 January 2027.
What It Means for US Readers
US visitors planning Carnival or the Rio Open should book early, as both events sell tickets months ahead.
What it means
Rio de Janeiro's governor-elect Douglas Ruas won the first round of the 2026 election with 50.88% of valid votes after Brazil's Supreme Electoral Court voided 274,411 votes for Anthony Garotinho.
