Glasgow’s chances of hosting next year’s Eurovision Song Contest have edged closer after organisers doubled-down on its decision to keep it out of Ukraine.
Ukraine won this year with Kalush Orchestra’s Stefania, as voters showed solidarity with the country following Russia’s invasion.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) earlier said 2023’s event could not be held in Ukraine due to the conflict.
It said it was in talks with the BBC to host the contest in the UK, which finished in second place with Sam Ryder’s Space Man.
The decision sparked criticism from Ukraine’s culture minister, but on Thursday the EBU doubled-down and said the “severe” risk of air raids in Ukraine alongside the “high” risk of mass casualties contributed to the decision that the “necessary requirements for hosting” the song contest were not met.
In light of this recent development, Glasgow City Council looks set to launch a bid to host the event if Ukraine is definitely unable to.
Council leader Susan Aitken revealed at a full council meeting earlier this week that officials have started “informal” and “hypothetical” talks about the Scottish city playing host.
But she noted: “Glasgow is extremely well placed and should clearly be the frontrunner in the UK. However, Ukraine does still seek to host the Eurovision Song Contest if they are able and I think they need to be given the time and space to explore that as much as possible.”
We took to the streets of Glasgow to ask the public’s thoughts on the possibility of Eurovision coming to the city.
Demi McLean, 21, was rather indifferent about the matter, though she did believe it to be a good idea.
The Springburn resident said the event would “bring money to the city”, adding that the OVO Hydro would be an “ideal” venue for the event.
Kilkenny native Ethan Kerwick, 21, who was visiting Glasgow for university prospects, stated: “It would be great for anywhere economically.
“It was in Cork and Cork at the time wasn’t as big, and I’d say it brought a good bit of money to Cork.”
When asked if he thought Glasgow was an ideal choice for the contest, he said enthusiastically: “Glasgow all the way.”
When asked if Glasgow hosting Eurovision would be a good idea, Dale Tanda, 70, stated: “Oh yeah! I think for people Scotland may not be the first choice on their list, they may think more along the lines of London, but Scotland has its own flavour.”
Thomas Johnston, 53, had nothing but excitement towards the idea.
He said: “I think it’s a great idea. It’s a great idea for the revenue it’ll bring to the city.
“It’ll put Glasgow on the international map and it’s a lot of exposure for Glasgow.
“I think it’s brilliant.”
He then stated that the Hydro or even Hamden Park would make good venues for the event.
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