Ireland's presidential election result took shape on Sunday as ballot counting advanced at centres across the country, with a successor to Michael D. Higgins set to be declared after Friday's vote. Returning officers reported strong turnout in urban constituencies.

Higgins, who served two terms since 2011, is constitutionally barred from seeking a third. The contest to replace him narrowed in its final weeks to a race between candidates backed by the main political blocs, with Sinn Féin, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael all seeking to shape the outcome in the largely ceremonial but symbolically weighty office.

Under Ireland's single transferable vote system, central count officials at Dublin Castle said a result could require several counts if no candidate secured a first-preference majority. Tallymen from the competing campaigns circulated early estimates as boxes were opened on Sunday morning.

The outcome will determine who represents Ireland abroad and signs legislation into law for the next seven years. Party leaders framed the vote as an early test of public mood ahead of the next general election, with cost-of-living pressures and housing dominating the campaign.

The winner is expected to be inaugurated in November, taking up residence at Áras an Uachtaráin in Phoenix Park.