A Havaianas ad featuring Fernanda Torres, urging people to start 2026 'with both feet' rather than the 'right foot,' initially drew right-wing boycott calls over perceived political bias. The row has since polarized Brazil, with left-wing support, 150,000 new Instagram followers in 48 hours, massive social media buzz, and echoes of a 2014 campaign.
The ad, starring 60-year-old actress Fernanda Torres, plays on the Portuguese phrase 'pé direito' (good luck or 'right foot'), interpreted by right-wing critics as an anti-right jab. Launched ahead of 2026, it states: 'Sorry, but I don't want you to start 2026 with the right foot... let's start with both feet.'
Right-wing backlash erupted on December 21, 2025. Deputy Nikolas Ferreira (PL-MG) called for a boycott, punning on Havaianas' slogan. Eduardo Bolsonaro, recently expelled from Congress, posted a video trashing the sandals: 'I will start the year with the right foot yes – and it won't be Havaianas.' Deputy Rodrigo Valadares (União-SE) labeled it an 'explicit political campaign against the right,' promoting rivals like Rider, Ipanema, and Crocs. São Paulo Governor Tarcísio de Freitas (Republicanos) mocked it during a December 22 infrastructure event: 'Here in São Paulo, we're going to start the new year with the right foot.'
Left-wing figures hit back. PT leader Lindbergh Farias (PT-RJ) shared his Havaianas purchase, joking about the 'red' bag. Deputy Erika Hilton (PSol-SP) taunted Bolsonaro supporters over his ankle monitor: 'Does it not fit their hooves right? Because those who don't like wearing Havaianas... without anything strapped or beeping on the ankle.'
The brand benefited: Havaianas added 150,000 Instagram followers in 48 hours, reaching 4.2 million. Rival Ipanema gained 490,000, doubling to 1 million. The feud generated 4 million X posts. A similar 2014 ad with Romário—wearing only the right flip-flop and 'sending' the left to Maradona—drew no uproar despite election timing; the now-PL senator has not commented.
