Eurovision may be staged in the UK in 2023 for the first time in 25 years – without us even winning.
Bosses will have to look at who can host the show next year if favourites Ukraine claim victory.
The war-ravaged country has seen a surge in support for its entry, The Kalush Orchestra, and their song Stefania.
But if they win in Turin, Italy, next month, it would be impossible for the Ukrainians to host the £20million event.
It is now being suggested that one of the Big Five – the UK, Germany, France, Italy and Spain, who make the biggest cash contributions to the European Broadcasting Union – should step in.
(Image: BBC/So TV/Christopher Baines/Matt Burlem)
When Australia joined the contest in 2015, it was agreed that – because of the time difference to Europe – one of the five would stage it if they ever won. Now it seems likely the Big Five will come into play if Ukraine win.
The UK has not tasted victory since 1997 with Katrina and The Waves. Our entry this year, Sam Ryder, is fourth favourite behind Ukraine, Italy and Sweden.
Last night a Eurovision spokesman said: “It’s too early to speculate on the hosting of next year’s Eurovision Song Contest.”
TikTok star Sam Ryder will be representing the United Kingdom at the 66th Eurovision Song Contest in Turin, Italy next month.
Speaking of the opportunity, Sam said: “Having been a fan of Eurovision since I was a kid I am so honoured to have been presented with the opportunity to sing at an event alongside some of Europe’s most talented creatives, performers and songwriters.
He added: “I hope to sing my head off in a way the UK can be proud of, and to showcase a song I wrote with my friends last summer makes the whole experience even more special. See you in Turin, legends!”
Sam went big on TikTok during the pandemic with pop music covers that caught the attention of singers like Justin Bieber, Dua Lipa and Alicia Keys.
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The online sensation, who has around 12 million followers, went on to secure a record deal with Warner Music Group label Parlophone, which boasts huge acts like Coldplay and David Guetta.
From viral song covers online to then wracking up 100 million global streams for his 2021 debut EP The Sun’s Gonna Rise – and selling out tours to now representing the country in Eurovision – the powerhouse talent has come a very long way in a short space of time.
Eurovision kicks off in Turin on Tuesday May 10 culminating in the international live event on Saturday, May 14.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
