The UK is likely to host the Eurovision Song Contest 2023, in Ukraine

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the organization that runs the Eurovision Song Contest, has confirmed that the competition will not take place in Ukraine next year despite the Kalush Orchestra winning first place in 2022.

The European Broadcasting Union said it was in discussions with the BBC about holding the 2023 competition in the UK

Check out the full EBU statement below:

Following their victory in the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) in May, the European Broadcasting Union was exploring options to host next year’s competition with Ukrainian public broadcaster UA: PBC, which previously organized the event in 2017 and 2005.

It has become a well-known tradition that the Eurovision Song Contest hosts the competition the following year, providing certain criteria including ensuring the organizability of the event and the safety of all stakeholders, including the public.

Given the ongoing war since the Russian invasion of the winning country this year, the EBU has taken the time to conduct a full assessment and feasibility study with both UA:PBC and third party specialists including on safety and security issues.

The Eurovision Song Contest is one of the most complex television productions in the world with thousands working and attending the event and 12 months of preparation time needed.

After objective analysis, the reference group, the ESC Board of Directors, concluded with deep regret that, under the current circumstances, the necessary security and operational guarantees for any broadcaster to host, organize and produce the Eurovision Song Contest cannot be guaranteed under the ESC Rules. Fulfilled by UA: PBC.

The EBU would like to thank UA:PBC for their sincere cooperation and commitment to exploring all scenarios in the weeks following the May 14 Kalush Orchestra win in Turin and share their sadness and disappointment that next year’s competition cannot be held in Ukraine.

Supports EBU UA:PBC across a full range of regions since the invasion. We will ensure this support continues so that UA:PBC can maintain the indispensable service it provides to Ukrainians.

As a result of this decision, in accordance with the rules and to ensure the continuity of the event, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) will now begin discussions with the BBC, as this year’s runner-up, to host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest in the UK.

Our full intention is that Ukraine’s victory will be reflected in next year’s bids. This will be a priority for us in our discussions with the final hosts.”



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