Left-leaning Alexander Van der Bellen and his message of moderation and tolerance prevailed in Austria's presidential election Sunday.

A pro-European Union candidate eked out a victory Monday over a right-wing, anti-migrant rival to become Austria's next president.

The law-and-order candidate of Austria's right-wing party swept the first round of presidential elections on Sunday, winning over 35 per cent of the vote for the party's best ever result.