French citizens are casting their ballots in a presidential runoff election Sunday.

The latest opinion polls indicate President Nicolas Sarkozy has narrowed the gap behind his Socialist rival, but Francois Hollande is still expected to emerge victorious.

Mr. Hollande cast his vote Sunday in the central town of Tulle, where he was once the mayor. Mr. Sarkozy and his wife, Carla Bruni, voted in Paris.

President Sarkozy has faced criticism for his handling of the economy and his brash style during his five years in office.

Mr. Hollande is a veteran politician who headed the Socialist Party for several years, but he has never held a top government post.

Voting in France started at 8:00 a.m. local time and will close 10 hours later. Preliminary results are expected Sunday evening.