Brazil's national team was knocked out of the 2026 World Cup after a 1‑0 loss to Norway, and Flávio and Eduardo Bolsonaro immediately blamed President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Why are the Bolsonaros targeting Lula?

Senator and presidential hopeful Flávio Bolsonaro wrote on X that the defeat is linked to the PT's victory in the 2002 elections, when the country stopped winning titles. He claimed that "since then, Brazil hasn't won anything." Eduardo echoed the line, recalling Bruno Guimarães' missed penalty at the 13th minute and posting a photo of their father beside the squad during the 2019 Copa América triumph.

How did the media respond?

Several outlets highlighted the blend of politics and sport, noting the criticism came right after the elimination. Correio Braziliense published the tweet thread, while other sites reported Flávio's reference to the first pentacampeonato in 2002, even though the president then was Fernando Henrique Cardoso. The accusatory tone sparked reactions from fans defending the coach and players.

What is Brazil's recent form?

In the last four matches, Brazil posted a 2W‑1D‑1L record (win, draw, loss, win), with the most recent result being a 1‑1 draw against Tunisia on 18 November 2025, showing the side still has competitiveness despite the early exit.

What lies ahead?

With the World Cup over, attention shifts to preparation for the next tournament in 2030. The federation has not announced structural changes yet, but political pressure could affect decisions on the coach and squad. Meanwhile, the Bolsonaro brothers continue using the loss as campaign material, promising to "win the country" even after missing the trophy.

The controversy underscores how the national team remains a stage for intense political debate, especially during election cycles. Brazil, despite the disappointment, still has a fan base hoping for a return to glory in the coming years.