Eurovision Song Contest winners Kalush Orchestra came first place in the competition that was held in Turin, Italy.
The rap band from Ukraine has since auctioned off their crystal microphone trophy for around £700,000 online.
It was sold via Facebook and the money from the sale will be donated to help Ukraine buy drones for the ongoing war against a Russian invasion.
Their auction was held on Sunday 29 May, and was hosted by Serhiy Prytula, who is a famous Ukrainian TV presenter.
Whitebit bought the trophy using cryptocurrency, and the band thanked them for their support, saying: “You guys are amazing. We appreciate each and every one of you who donated to this auction and a special thanks to the team Whitebit who purchased the trophy for $900,000 and are now the rightful owners of our trophy.”
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
In total three were more than 31,000 entries for the raffle.
Kalush Orchestra won Eurovision earlier on in May, with a folk-rap style song called Stefiana. The band stole the show and won with 631 points, landing them the top spot.
The UK came second with Sam Ryder’s hit single Space Man.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
While the winning artist will get to bring the trophy home, and the nation they represent will have the honour of hosting the following Eurovision, it is unclear how Ukraine will host next year’s show.
The harrowing invasion of Russia into Ukraine has meant that it will likely make it difficult for the nation to host, and it may be held at another country.
Despite this, Volodymyr Zelensky spoke out on social media, saying: “Our courage impresses the world, our music conquers Europe!” he wrote in a Facebook post celebrating Ukraine’s win. “Next year Ukraine will host Eurovision! For the third time in its history, and I believe – not for the last time.”
(Image: Getty Images)
He continued: “We will make sure that one day the participants and guests of Eurovision will be hosted in Mariupol – free, peaceful, and restored!”
“Thank you for the victory Kalush Orchestra and everyone who voted for us! Sure, our winning chord in the battle with the enemy is not far away. Glory to Ukraine!”
Zelenskiy wants to host Eurovision in Mairupol, in 2023.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
