Reports say, the former nuclear negotiator was leading with nearly 42% of the vote after more than 8 million ballots had been counted. Current predictions are that the election will go to a second round, which is set for next Friday.

 It is also reported that the result of the election so far is surprising. Reformist candidate Massoud Pezeshkian, who had been ahead in earlier results, is now trailing at just over 40%. 

The run-off vote will happen if no candidate wins more than 50% of all ballots cast in this first round, the reports added.