After agreeing to host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest, the BBC has issued guidance for hopeful hosts ahead of the process to determine the victor. The United Kingdom were asked to take on hosting duties on behalf of 2022 winners Ukraine due to the circumstances surrounding Russia’s invasion.
Earlier this week, the broadcaster went into further detail regarding the task of choosing the host city. Any local authority interested in hosting the ceremony are invited to email esc.hostcity@bbc.co.uk.
Entering a bid does not incur a financial charge. However, cities can determine whether they incur costs to help support their bid.
Read more: Craig Hill wants to host the Eurovision Song Contest if it's held in Glasgow
How does the process for deciding the Eurovision host city work?
Although the UK government may be consulted, the BBC and the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) will determine the host city for the Eurovision Song Contest 2023. The process takes place across two stages, with potential candidates having to meet a set of minimum standards required for the grand operation.
Once the judges have received applications, a shortlist of suitable cities will be determined before a final decision is made.
When will the Eurovision 2023 host be announced?
The BBC anticipates the process to be completed in Autumn. The successful host city should be announced then.
What are the main requirements for a Eurovision host city?
The final selection decision will be based on the city or region’s capacity and capability in meeting the requirements stipulated by the BBC and the EBU. The availability of resources and general experience in hosting a significant event, which is both large and complex, will also be taken into consideration.
The EBU’s criteria last year said that the venue must accommodate at least 10,000 spectators, in addition to a press centre, while also being within close proximity to an international airport and sufficient hotel facilities.
Who is the bookies favourite to host Eurovision 2023?
According to Eurovision World, Glasgow is the current favourite to host Eurovision among bookmakers, with the Scottish city being given a 25% chance. Not far behind is Birmingham, who are claimed as having a 20% likelihood, with some bookies putting them as favourite.
Outsiders include Manchester, Liverpool and Belfast, although the odds suggest it is firmly a two-horse race.
Which UK cities have previously hosted Eurovision?
The BBC has staged the Eurovision Song Contest on more occasions than any other broadcaster, with next year set to be their ninth occasion. It was hosted in London in 1960, 1963, 1968 and 1977, Edinburgh in 1972, Brighton in 1974, Harrogate in 1982 and, most recently, Birmingham in 1998.
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