Simion won 41% of the votes (3.86 million votes), while Dan came second with 21% (1.97 million votes), according to the Permanent Electoral Authority (AEP). Crin Antonescu, the candidate of the ruling government coalition PSD-PNL-UDMR, was third with 20.1% (1.89 million votes). He was trailed by former PM Victor Ponta, who got 13% (1.23 million votes) as an independent candidate.

Close to 1 million votes were cast by Romanians abroad.

"We stand with and for the people. And these people are the young individuals who choose to stay and fight for their country. They must be at the core of our existence; we must build a better future for them," said Simion in a recorded video following the closing of polls.

"The second round is set to be a difficult one against the isolationist candidate. This won't be a debate between individuals; it will be a debate between a pro-Western direction for Romania and an anti-Western one. That's what the second round will be about," said Dan.

The next round of elections will be held on May 18.