GLASGOW has lost out to Liverpool in its bid to host the Eurovision Song Contest, Graham Norton has announced.
The international music show is being held in the UK after this year’s winner, Ukraine, was deemed unable to host because of the Russian invasion.
Livepool faced Glasgow in the final run-off after a list of 20 candidates was whittled down by the BBC and European Broadcasting Union, which produces the annual event.
The announcement was made by Graham Norton, who hosts the BBC’s coverage, on The One Show on Friday evening.
The final two cities battling it out were revealed last month following a seven-strong shortlist which also included Birmingham, Leeds, Newcastle, Sheffield and Manchester.
Ukrainian entry Kalush Orchestra triumphed at the 2022 competition in Turin, Italy, but the EBU later concluded the show could not be safely held in the war-torn country.
It was decided the UK would host the 67th Eurovision Song Contest, as Sam Ryder came second in the competition.
Applicant cities were asked to demonstrate how they would reflect Ukrainian culture, music and communities if they were to host on behalf of Ukraine.
This will be the ninth time the UK will have hosted the competition, more than any other country.
Nicola Sturgeon said she was “gutted for Glasgow” after the announcement.
The First Minister, however, congratulated the winning city in a tweet, adding: “You’ll no doubt do Eurovision and Ukraine proud”.
A spokesperson for Glasgow City Council said: “Naturally, we are disappointed not to have been selected, but we are very proud to have made it to the final two cities and we wish Liverpool every success as they prepare to host Eurovision 2023.
“Glasgow remains a firm supporter of Ukraine and we look forward to watching Liverpool deliver a celebration of Ukrainian culture.”
Culture Minister Neil Gray said: “Although we are disappointed Glasgow’s bid to host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest was not successful, we wish Liverpool well with hosting next year’s event on behalf of Ukraine.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Glasgow City Council for all their work on this bid.”
He added: “Scotland continues to stand with the rest of the UK, Europe and the world, in condemnation of Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.
“Since the conflict began, more than 20,000 people with a Scottish sponsor has arrived, representing 20% of all UK arrivals – the most per head of any of the four nations.”
Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken added: “Massive congratulations to Liverpool, a great city.
“Now gie it laldy for Ukraine.
“Am so proud of our Glasgow team who put together a brilliant bid to get to the final two.
“We’ll be cheering Liverpool on for a successful #Eurovision with the Ukrainian people at its heart.”
