Manchester has been officially ruled out of hosting next year’s Eurovision as the shortlisted cities are slashed from seven to just two.
Announced today by the BBC, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Newcastle and Shefflied have been axed from the running leaving just Liverpool and Glasgow in the race for the top host prize.
A final decision is to be made ‘within weeks’ on which riverside venue will host next year’s prestigious performance. And, hopefully for us Mancs, we’ll only have to make the short Transpennine Express journey to the neighbouring city of Liverpool to watch the magic unfold!
The original seven shortlisted cities were scored on a set of criteria, according to the BBC, including:
- “Having a suitable venue and sufficient space to deliver the requirements of the Song Contest
- “The commitment that can be made by a city or region to hosting the event, including the financial contribution
- “The strength of the cultural offer which includes off screen local and regional activity as well as showcasing Ukrainian culture and music
- “And alignment with the BBC’s strategic priorities as a public service broadcaster, such as providing value to all audiences and supporting the creative economy in the UK.”
It was announced last month that the UK would host next year’s event after coming second to Ukraine in 2022’s contest. Organisers decided it could not go ahead in Ukraine due to the ongoing conflict with Russia.
The UK came in second place with Sam Ryder’s smash-hit ‘Spaceman’, prompting the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) to open talks with the BBC.
A statement from BBC director general Tim Davie read: “It is a matter of great regret that our colleagues and friends in Ukraine are not able to host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest.
“Being asked to host the largest and most complex music competition in the world is a great privilege. The BBC is committed to making the event a true reflection of Ukrainian culture alongside showcasing the diversity of British music and creativity.”
