**The open field in Trenčín’s October 2026 mayoral election reflects the absence of the long-serving incumbent, creating a competitive contest among independents and smaller-party candidates.** Ján Forgáč, the first vice-mayor backed explicitly by Richard Rybníček for project continuity on infrastructure such as the new road bridge and ECoC 2026 legacy initiatives, sits near the top alongside repeat challengers Miloš Mičega and Danica Birošová. Mičega, a long-time councilor emphasizing transport solutions and youth programs, has previously drawn around 27% support, while Birošová highlights fiscal management and improved public communication. Lower-priced options like Anton Kysel and Michal Bratranec remain further back. With candidate registration only recently closed and no published local polls available, trader prices capture high uncertainty around turnout, late endorsements, and which contender can consolidate support on shared priorities like mobility and cultural infrastructure before election day.