One of these 7 cities will host Eurovision 2023
The BBC has revealed the shortlist of cities still in the run for hosting the Eurovision Song Contest 2023
This morning, British broadcaster BBC has revealed the 7 cities still in the run for hosting Eurovision Song Contest 2023 in the United Kingdom.
The shortlist is based on the cities' ability to show they have the capacity, capability and experience to host an event of this scale and complexity. 20 cities expressed an interest.
The BBC states that the process was "heavily weighted towards demonstrating past experience in hosting major international events, as well as being able to demonstrate their credentials in hosting a celebration of contemporary music."
Eurovision 2023 Host City Shortlist
London was one of the favorites, but didn't make the cut at a time when both the BBC and the UK government are seeking to move events and opportunities outside the capital. Others missing out include Aberdeen, Brighton, Bristol and Darlington.
What will happen next?
The final decision on the Eurovision 2023 host city will be made by the BBC and the EBU (European Broadcasting Union). It will be based on a city or region's capacity and capability in meeting the requirements, as well as availability of resources and general experience in hosting a large and complex event, such as the Eurovision Song Contest.
The 7 cities will be scored on a set of criteria:
- A host venue able to accommodate at least 10,000 spectators, available for preparations for six to eight weeks.
- A press center for 1,500 journalists.
- A city served by an international airport.
- Hotel accommodation for at least 2,000 delegates, journalists and spectators.
- The commitment that can be made by a city or region to hosting the event, including the financial contribution.
- A strong cultural offer which includes off-screen local and regional activity, as well as showcasing Ukrainian culture and music.
- 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.
The final decision will be announced in the autumn.
Why will Eurovision 2023 be held in United Kingdom?
The British broadcaster BBC, the Ukrainian broadcaster UA:PBC and the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) agreed back in July that the 67th edition of our beloved contest will be held in the United Kingdom.
The announcement came after EBU opted out Ukraine as host country for the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 for safety and security reasons. As a result of discussions, the BBC, as runner up in the 2022 Contest, was invited by the EBU to host Eurovision 2023.
It will be the ninth time the contest is held in the United Kingdom. The Brits have already hosted Eurovision eight times, mainly in the '60s and '70s:
- 1960: London (Royal Festival Hall)
- 1963: London (BBC Television Centre)
- 1968: London (Royal Albert Hall)
- 1972: Edinburgh (Usher Hall)
- 1974: Brighton (The Dome)
- 1977: London (Wembley Conference Centre)
- 1982: Harrogate (Harrogate Conference Centre)
- 1998: Birmingham (National Indoor Arena)
....and now again:
Participants
37 countries will participate at the Eurovision Song Contest 2023:
Tickets
Tickets usually go out early the same year or late in the year before the contest. We expect the tickets for the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 to go on sale late 2022.
The start of ticket sales depends on several factors: Firstly, the host city and arena must be chosen. Secondly, selection of the ticket agency. Thirdly, a floor plan of seats/stands in the arena once stage design, green room and camera placement have roughly been decided.
