The United Kingdom announced today, Monday, that it will host the events of the European singing competition “Eurovision” for the year 2023, on behalf of the former title holder Ukraine, given the crisis in the latter.
Outgoing British Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted: “I agreed with (Ukrainian President) Zelensky that Eurovision 2023 should celebrate the Ukrainian people and state, wherever it is held.”
“Because we are the hosts now, the UK will honor this pledge directly, and will organize a fantastic competition on behalf of our Ukrainian friends,” he added.
The 2022 Eurovision event in Italy attracted about 161 million viewers, according to the competition’s official website. The Ukrainian delegation, the Kalush Orchestra, presented the song “Stefania”, which won the title this year.
Usually, the title winners host the following year’s competition. The BBC is set to coordinate the broadcast competition and is now in the process of finding a host city.
“The BBC is committed to making this event a true reflection of Ukrainian culture while demonstrating the diversity of British music and creativity,” Broadcasting Director General Tim Davy said in a statement.
Britain announces that it will host Eurovision 2023 on behalf of Ukraine
