Trzaskowski, who ran with the backing of Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s centrist government, congratulated his conservative rival Karol Nawrocki, who secured a five-year term as head of state.
With all ballots counted, Nawrocki, a pro-Trump Eurosceptic, won 50.89 percent of the vote in Sunday's election, while Trzaskowski, garnered 49.11 percent, according to the National Electoral Commission (PKW).
"Congratulations to Karol Nawrocki on winning the presidential election," Trzaskowski said in a post on X.
"This victory comes with responsibility—especially in such difficult times, and with such a close result," he added. "I hope you will keep that in mind."
'I’m sorry we didn’t win'
Trzaskowski also thanked his supporters in a message expressing both gratitude and regret.
"Thank you for every vote," he wrote. "I fought for a Poland we could build together—strong, safe, honest, and compassionate. A modern Poland, where everyone has the chance to pursue their goals and aspirations. Thank you to everyone who voted for that vision of our country."
He added: "Thank you for showing up at rallies. For every kind word. For every photo we took together, every handshake, every shout of support. For every banner you hung, every sign you made.
"Thank you for believing in me and casting your vote for me on Sunday. And I'm sorry I wasn’t able to convince the majority of citizens of my vision for Poland. I’m sorry we didn’t win—together. Thank you for everything. See you soon."
An initial exit poll released shortly after voting ended on Sunday evening had projected a narrow Trzaskowski win.
Speaking to supporters at the time, he claimed victory but warned that the margin was razor-thin.
Rafał Trzaskowski with wife Małgorzata. Photo: PAP/Paweł Supernak
The Polish president is the head of state and has the power to veto legislation passed by parliament, a key prerogative in a country where traditionalists and liberals are bitterly divided.
Nawrocki's win could usher in a period of heightened political tension and pose new challenges to the pro-European government of Prime Minister Donald Tusk, potentially leading to legislative gridlock, particularly on judicial and social reforms, according to analysts.
The election outcome marks a significant shift in voter preferences following the 2023 parliamentary elections, signalling a resurgence of right-wing sentiment.
Nawrocki’s campaign emphasised traditional values and a cautious approach to European integration.
Trzaskowski’s narrow loss underscores the polarisation of Polish society, with urban centres leaning liberal and rural areas favouring conservative policies.
Nawrocki, whose presidential bid was backed by the right-wing opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party, pledged to promote Catholic family values and oppose liberal reforms, including any effort to relax abortion rules.
An admirer of Trump's style of leadership, he is also expected to support policies aligning Poland more closely with Washington.
Trzaskowski, a senior figure in Tusk’s ruling Civic Coalition (KO), campaigned on a platform of strengthening EU ties and democratic institutions.
The close race highlighted a deep divide among the electorate over the country's future direction.
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Source: IAR, PAP, TVP Info, TVN24, wybory.gov.pl