Incumbent President of the Dominican Republic Luis Abinader declared victory late on Sunday in the country's presidential race after preliminary results were released.

In a speech delivered at his campaign headquarters, Abinader underscored his considerable lead over eight rival candidates. Initial results showed he had garnered 59.06 percent of the 21.49 percent of votes tabulated.

A candidate must get at least 50 percent of the votes plus one or more to win the election outright and avoid a runoff.