Centrist candidate Emmanuel Macron [Photo/Xinhua]

Centrist candidate Emmanuel Macron and far-right candidate Marine Le Pen confirmed their status as frontrunners for the imminent French presidential election in a new survey released on Friday.

The opinion poll, conducted by research firm Ipsos for France Televisions and Radio France, shows that Macron will come on top in the first round with 24 percent of the votes, while Le Pen is predicted to garner 23 percent.

On their heels are right-wing conservative Francois Fillon, and far-left Jean-Luc Melechon, both expected to receive 19 percent, according to the poll.

The latest poll is consistent with polls in previous months, which predicts Macron will face off Le Pen in a runoff vote and win by majority.

A total of 11 candidates are competing for the French presidency this year.

The first round of votes will kick off on Sunday, and a second will be held for the top two candidates on May 7 if no one is able to receive 50 percent of the votes.

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