Eurovision Song Contest brand director Martin Green has pointed out that Vatican City is eligible to enter the competition and is hoping the religious hub will send some ‘dancing cardinals’
Eurovision bosses are calling on new Pope Leo XIV to take part in the contest.
They want Vatican City to send a representative to compete next year. In fact, they’re convinced the Pope’s involvement would be a big hit with viewers.
Brand Director Martin Green said on The Rest Is Entertainment podcast: “You can participate in Eurovision if you are a member of the EBU – the European Broadcasting Union. My understanding is that it’s Vatican Radio that is a member of the EBU. So technically, they might be able to enter an act. Frankly, a line-up of dancing cardinals… I’m all for it.”
Eurovision’s Executive Supervisor Martin Österdahl added: “Me too. I think that could do really well.” Martin Green added: “Let’s cross our fingers. It would be a moment.”
If it happens, it will mirror the iconic episode of Father Ted where the priest competed with My Lovely Horse. Vatican City is the smallest sovereign state in the world – it’s estimated it has a population of less than 900.
Currently the smallest country to compete at Eurovision is San Marino, which has never won. It might raise a few eyebrows, but it would at least be more easily explained than the inclusion of Israel and Australia, neither of which are in Europe.
Australia is allowed to compete after being invited to join the 60th anniversary celebrations in 2015. This year’s act Go-Jo was knocked out in the second semi-final, which is lucky, as Australia aren’t allowed to host if they win.
As for Israel, they are allowed to enter as they were a member of the European Broadcasting Union, which is the criteria needed to join. They have entered 49 since 1973 and won four times.
In other Eurovision news, there will be a ring of steel around the contest at Saturday night’s Grand Final. Contest chiefs have beefed up security at St Jakobshalle arena in Basel, Switzerland over fears it will be targeted by terrorists.
The venue will be patrolled by armed guards throughout the night. There is also airport-style security in place at all entrances and fans are being warned bags will be banned.
An insider said: “Organisers are taking no chances. They are making sure everyone is safe.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
