Liverpool will host the Eurovision Song Contest next year, the BBC has announced.
He beat Glasgow to win the chance to host the show, with the grand finale taking place on May 13, 2023.
Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra won this year’s competition but the organisers, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), have decided would be dangerous to host next year’s competition in the country.
Briton Sam Ryder came second, with the BBC stepping in to offer to run the contest instead.
The BBC’s Graham Norton, who is commentating on the event on behalf of the UK, revealed the announcement live on The One Show.
In a statement, the EBU said Liverpool, which is twinned with the Ukrainian city of Odessa, “has been chosen following a robust application process which considered the site’s facilities, capacity to accommodate thousands of visiting delegations, crews, fans and journalists, with the host city’s infrastructure and cultural offering reflecting Ukraine’s victory in 2022, among other criteria.”
Eurovision Song Contest manager Martin Osterdahl added the city was the ‘perfect location’ to hold the competition next year, and that the Liverpool arena ‘exceeds all requirements’ to stage the show .
Kalush Orchestra, reacting to the announcement, said: “We are very happy that next year’s Eurovision Song Contest is taking place in Liverpool.
“Although we haven’t had the privilege of visiting it yet, the city’s musical heritage is known the world over. Playing in the same place where the Beatles started will be a moment we will never forget!
“While we are sad that next year’s competition cannot take place in our country, we know that the people of Liverpool will be warm hosts and that the organizers will be able to add a real Ukrainian flavor to Eurovision 2023 in this city.”
Culture Secretary Michelle Donelan also praised Liverpool after the announcement, saying: “Congratulations Liverpool. The city loves music and knows how to throw a party, so I have no doubt they will host a spectacular experience for the thousands in attendance and millions watching at home on the BBC.
“(Vladimir) Putin’s illegal war means the competition can’t take place in Ukraine, but Eurovision brings people together and, together with the government, I’m sure Liverpool and the BBC will honor the country’s culture and creativity. with an unforgettable event.”
Thoughts will now turn to planning for the gigantic event, which consists of three live shows and countless rehearsals, and how it will be paid for.
Eurovision is usually paid for by the host broadcaster, the host city and the government of the host country.
The BBC, which is the UK’s host broadcaster, has been forced to make cuts over the next few years, and the government is facing its own financial crisis, and it is not yet clear how the bill of up to 20 million pounds will be paid. .
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Liverpool City Council said it would start implementing its plans, working with Ukrainian artists and creating an education programme.
Mayor of Liverpool Joanne Anderson said: “I am delighted that Eurovision is coming to Liverpool!
“We knew we faced stiff competition from Glasgow, but we also knew we had a great offer underpinned by the expertise of our award-winning Culture Liverpool team and backed by all of our brilliant partners.
“It’s a massive event and the eyes of the world will be on us in May, especially those of our Ukrainian friends.
“Now begins months of work to organize the best party ever. Ukraine – you have my promise that we will make you proud.”
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