Romanian hard-right presidential candidate challenges election defeat

FILE PHOTO: Presidential candidate George Simion reacts to exit polls of Romania's second round of the presidential election, in front of the parliament in Bucharest, Romania, May 18, 2025. REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki/File Photo

(Reuters) -Romania's defeated hard-right presidential contender George Simion said late on Tuesday that he would challenge the ballot's result, alleging interference by France and Moldova, after a centrist victory was met with relief by many European leaders.

Centrist Bucharest mayor Nicusor Dan recovered ground to win the country's presidential election run-off on Sunday, securing about 54% of ballots cast against 46% for Simion, who had pledged to put Romania on a path inspired by U.S. President Donald Trump's politics.