Peter Fiabáne, the incumbent mayor since 2018 running as an independent with backing from Progresívne Slovensko, KDH, SaS, and Demokrati, holds the strongest position ahead of the October 24, 2026, vote. His campaign emphasizes completing ongoing projects in housing, regulated parking, transport, public safety, and green spaces while fielding a broad slate of candidates for the city council. Betting markets reflect this edge, though his odds have eased modestly since August as Rastislav Johanes, a physician and manager, has gained ground among the eight registered candidates. Other contenders, including Peter Cibulka and Anton Kozlík, register minimal support. A recent pre-election debate was disrupted when Cibulka attempted to join uninvited, underscoring the fragmented opposition. The contest remains a test of the incumbent’s record against limited challenger momentum in the final days.