Bucharest’s liberal mayor, Nicușor Dan, has emerged victorious in Romania’s tense presidential race, defeating nationalist challenger George Simion after a highly charged campaign season and months of political instability.

Dan, a mathematician and pro-European Union advocate, secured 53.6% of the vote in Sunday’s runoff, overcoming Simion’s strong performance among Romania’s diaspora voters. The victory follows a dramatic first round earlier this month in which Simion, leader of the far-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), claimed a surprise lead, fueled by widespread voter frustration and lingering anger over the annulment of last year’s presidential results due to allegations of Russian meddling—allegations Moscow has denied.

Despite his defeat, Simion drew substantial support from Romanians abroad, winning over 68% of the vote in Spain, Italy, and Germany, and maintaining a lead in the UK. Many diaspora voters had originally backed Calin Georgescu, a controversial far-right figure whose previous first-round win was nullified amid fraud and interference concerns. Georgescu was barred from running again, intensifying tensions around the runoff.

Still, Nicușor Dan’s domestic base proved decisive. Over 11.5 million Romanians cast ballots, with more than six million backing Dan. Celebrations erupted late Sunday night as supporters gathered in a park near City Hall in Bucharest, chanting Dan’s name. The president-elect joined them after midnight, once results became conclusive.

"We need to build Romania together, irrespective of who you voted for," Dan declared in his victory speech. "A community of Romanians who want profound change in Romania has won."

Supporters like Mihai, speaking to the BBC outside Dan’s campaign HQ, expressed relief: "I was really worried about Simion. I want to choose the pro-European way. It’s the only way."

Andrea, who came to the celebrations with her daughter, added: "This means a better future for our children. A good life for all of us, and an honest Romania."

Dan’s campaign focused on anti-corruption, democratic reform, and continued support for Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing war. In contrast, Simion ran on an isolationist platform, calling for cuts to aid for Kyiv and attacking the EU. He denied allegations of being pro-Russian or authoritarian, accusing the media of smearing him.

Even as exit polls showed Dan ahead, Simion initially refused to concede, insisting: "I won, I am the new president of Romania, and I am giving back power to the Romanians." But he later acknowledged defeat on Facebook in the early hours of Monday, and a planned protest by his supporters was reportedly cancelled.

Simion’s first-round success was closely tied to his partnership with Georgescu and a viral social media campaign that struck a chord with disaffected voters. Many Romanians remain disillusioned with mainstream parties, and the collapse of the previous government—after its candidate failed to reach the runoff—only deepened political turmoil.

Dan’s victory was welcomed by European leaders. Moldova’s President Maia Sandu said, "Moldova and Romania stand together, supporting one another and working side by side for a peaceful, democratic, and European future." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also extended congratulations, emphasizing the importance of a strong Romanian partnership.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the high voter turnout and hailed the election result as "a choice for an open, prosperous Romania in a strong Europe."

While George Simion fell short, his substantial support underscores a growing nationalist sentiment among parts of the Romanian electorate. But in this pivotal moment, a clear majority rejected isolationism and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to European values.