Peter Fiabáne, the incumbent mayor since 2018, holds a strong lead in the October 24, 2026, Žilina mayoral race due to his established record on public space development, sustainable transport, and recent initiatives like affordable housing projects, backed by cross-party support from groups including PS, SaS, KDH, and Demokrati. He is running as an independent for what he described as his final term. Rastislav Johanes, a surgeon and regional councilor emphasizing housing, parking reforms, and equitable investment, has narrowed the gap in recent betting markets after gaining momentum in late August, though he trails significantly. Other declared candidates such as Peter Cibulka, Anton Kozlík, and Miroslav Sokol focus on transparency, maintenance, and fiscal efficiency but remain lower-profile challengers with limited market traction. The election occurs alongside regional votes, with no major late developments altering the incumbent's position.