The phrase "clear frontrunner" means that someone or something is currently in the lead or considered to be the most likely winner or the person or thing in the strongest position. Full definition
In a field as crowded as this one — there are dozens of TV shows and films nominated for awards, with few clear frontrunners in any category going forward — it's hard to make sweeping pronouncements about trends in the industry. (vox.com)
As a two - term Democratic governor of one of America's biggest states, he is considered one of the few clear frontrunners for his party's 2020 nomination. (newrepublic.com)
The result leaves England as clear frontrunners and leaves the home side four points adrift of second place following Slovakia's win over Lithuania. (thefootballforecast.com)