Liverpool will host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of Ukraine, who won the competition this year.
After 20 cities across all four nations of the UK showed an interest in hosting the 67th competition next year, seven cities were initially shortlisted, with two cities remaining in the running as of last week. Following a bidding race with the city of Glasgow, Liverpool was selected as the host city for the 2023 event.
The grand final will take place at Liverpool Arena on May 13, following the semi-finals on May 9 and 11. Head here for more details. Eurovision Song Contest Executive Supervisor, Martin Österdahl commented:
"Liverpool is the ideal place to host the 67th Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of Ukraine. The city is synonymous with music and Liverpool Arena exceeds all the requirements needed to stage a global event of this scale. We have been very impressed with the passion the city has shown in embracing the Contest and their inclusive ideas for placing last year's winners, Ukraine, front and centre when thousands of fans visit next May.
"This will be the first Eurovision Song Contest to be held in the UK in 25 years and, as we work with our Host Broadcaster, the BBC, to celebrate Ukraine’s victory, this unique production promises to be a very special one indeed."
The UK was chosen to host the contest after organisers decided it could not be held in the reigning champions' country of Ukraine, due to the ongoing conflict with Russia presenting too many safety and security risks.
Ukrainian entrants Kalush Orchestra performed the 2022 contest's winning song, Stefania, while UK singer Sam Ryder finished second in Turin, Italy.
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