Other forms: front-runners
A front-runner is the one most likely to win. The clear front-runner.
Being one attracts every attack, which is why leading too early is dangerous. A front-runner in a race sets the pace and does the work for everybody behind.
1nounfront-runnerThe one most likely to win.
“The front-runner led for nine months and lost in a week.”
front-runner is a person.
Also accepted in games: favourite