Romania's presidential race has entered a pivotal phase after a stunning first-round result on Sunday, May 4, 2025. George Simion, leader of the far-right Alliance for the Unity of Romanians (AUR), has emerged on top, securing a lead that sets the stage for a tense runoff against centrist Bucharest mayor Nicușor Dan. Dan finished second with just under 21% of the vote, placing him as Simion’s sole challenger in the final round, scheduled for May 18.