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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Sophie Buchan

Eurovision 2023: Glasgow and Liverpool selected as top two finalists to host song contest

Glasgow has been selected as one of two UK finalists as the battle of hosting next year's song contest continues.

Announcing the news today (Tuesday, September 27), the Eurovison Song Contest official Twitter account revealed the remaining two with Liverpool also in the running.

The shortlist of who is set to host was cut from seven cities, meaning Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield have missed out on the chance to host the competition when it returns in May.

READ MORE: Glasgow's The Gannet named in top 10 best fine dining restaurants in UK

The BBC said the two remaining cities, which both have riverside arena venues, had "the strongest overall offer" with a final decision will be made "within weeks", the broadcaster reports.

The UK came second place last year with Sam Ryder's Space Man however it was confirmed that the UK would officially hold the singing competition on behalf of 2022 winners, Ukraine.

Usually the contest is hosted by the country that won the previous year however Ukraine declined on account of the ongoing war with Russia.

Following the announcement, Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “We’re excited that Glasgow has made it to the final two cities in the running to host Eurovision and a celebration of Ukraine next year.

“The competition has been very strong, but Glasgow has an unrivalled track-record for successfully hosting major global events.

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“Between that experience and expertise; our famous live music scene, and one of the world’s top entertainment venues in the OVO Hydro – Glasgow has everything it takes to host a show that the whole Eurovision family can be proud of.”

Discussing the exciting news, Culture Minister Neil Gray added: “We are delighted that Glasgow has made the final selection to host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest.

“The Scottish Government will continue to engage with Glasgow council as they progress their final bid.”

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