The Eurovision Song Contest has been confirmed to be taking place in the UK next year, as reported by the BBC.
Show organisers have confirmed that the next event will not be held in the winning country as usual, due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, following Russia's invasion. And due to the fact that the UK came a close second to Ukraine, the European Broadcasting Union have opened discussions with the BBC.
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There has been no confirmation as to what city will host Eurovision, but Glasgow have expressed an interest in being the host city. Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Birmingham, Aberdeen, London, Brighton, Belfast and Cardiff could also be in the running.
In order to host the contest, the cities will need to prove they have all the needed facilities - like transportation, accommodation and international links at airports - and go through a bidding process as well. The EBU have said the host venue should accommodate about 10,000 spectators, be within easy reach of an international airport and have enough hotel accommodation for at least 2,000 delegates, journalists and spectators.
Earlier this year, Glasgow Live reported that rumours that Glasgow might host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest have gone into overdrive after the UK was officially 'lined up' for the mega event.
The EBU released a statement at the time that read: "The Eurovision song contest is one of the most complex TV productions in the world, with thousands working on, and attending, the event and 12 months of preparation time needed.”
It said, after a lengthy investigation, the required guarantees could not be provided by Ukraine’s public broadcaster and expressed “sadness and disappointment” that next year’s contest could not be held in Ukraine.
“As a result of this decision, in accordance with the rules and to ensure the continuity of the event, the EBU will now begin discussions with the BBC, as this year’s runner-up, to potentially host the 2023 Eurovision song contest in the United Kingdom.
“It is our full intention that Ukraine’s win will be reflected in next year’s shows. This will be a priority for us in our discussions with the eventual hosts.”
Glaswegian Eurovision fans have already been making a case for the city to host the contest on social media. One Twitter user wrote: "Glasgow would be better! Think about it they Used the Hydro for the Eurovision Movie on Netflix."
Another said: "Personally I agree London hosts far too many things. I think it's time for Scotland to host Eurovision bring it to Glasgow!"
And a third wrote: "Glasgow. Let's make this happen."
More comments read: "OMG! It has to be Glasgow…. Eurovision: UK to host next year's Song Contest."
And others commented: "Won’t it be great to see Glasgow representing THE UNITED KINGDOM by hosting the Eurovision song contest 2023."
Another added: "Screams in Eurovision. Aaaaand sets up a prayer circle for Glasgow 2023."
Finally, one concluded: "I swear to god I will tank my dream career (more on this in a few weeks time!) to fly back if #Eurovision is held in Glasgow."
Eurovision 2023 will definitely be held in the UK, but will Glasgow outbid the other cities to become the host city? Only time will tell. More information is available on the Eurovision Song Contest website here.
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