Right wing urges boycott of iconic Brazilian flip-flops

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (AFP) — Prominent figures on Brazil’s right wing are calling for a boycott of Havaianas, the iconic Brazilian flip-flop sandals, over an ad seen as taking sides ahead of next year’s presidential elections.

In a video posted on the brand’s social media accounts, actress Fernanda Torres urges the public “not to start 2026 on the right foot,” but “on both feet.”

Torres, a supporter of the Brazilian left, was the lead actress in the Brazilian film “Ainda Estou Aqui” (“I’m Still Here”), which won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film this year.

The advertisement has sparked outrage in conservative circles.

Eduardo Bolsonaro, one of the sons of far-right former president Jair Bolsonaro — who is serving a 27-year prison sentence for an attempted coup after losing the last election — took to Instagram on Sunday to register his disgust.

In a video, he throws a pair of the flip-flops, recognizable from their straps adorned with the Brazilian flag, into the trash.

“Havaianas used to be a national symbol. I’ve seen many foreigners wearing this Brazilian flag on their feet... but I’m sorry, I’m going to throw these flip-flops in the trash,” says the United States-based, former Brazilian lawmaker.

Conservative congressman Rodrigo Valadares posted on X: “Havaianas has chosen its side. The RIGHT has opted for a boycott.”

“My feet are burning on the asphalt, but Havaianas, never again,” right-wing influencer Thiago Asmar posted Monday on Instagram.