Two-stage process to decide which city will host Eurovision Song Contest

Eurovision’s host city next year will be chosen as part of a two-stage process, it has been confirmed.

The event had been due to be held in Ukraine, but organisers decided to move it due to Russia’s invasion of the country.

Glasgow and Aberdeen are among the UK cities to have stated their intention to host the contest.

London, Manchester, Sheffield and Leeds are also all seeking to become hosts.

Eurovision is organised by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and is broadcast in the UK by the BBC.

The decision on a host city is made in partnership between the EBU and the BBC.

Setting out the decision-making process, the BBC has stated that a two-stage selection process will take place.

We wish @Eurovision could be in Ukraine but understand that in circumstances this isn’t possible.

However, I can think of a perfect venue on banks of the River Clyde!! @scotgov is happy to discuss with BBC, @GlasgowCC @EBU_HQ and others https://t.co/74YzxlWgWh
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) June 17, 2022

Cities will be shortlisted based on their ability to meet the requirements for hosting the event, the BBC indicated.

It also explained that it may “consult” the UK Government on the decision.

However, the host city will ultimately be decided upon by the BBC and the EBU.

“The final decision on selecting the host city will be based on a city or region’s capacity and capability in meeting the BBC’s and the EBU’s requirements, as well as availability of resources and general experience in hosting a large and complex event such as the Eurovision Song Contest,” the BBC said.

“For example, last year the EBU’s host city criteria was based on providing a venue able to accommodate at least 10,000 spectators (as well as a press centre), that should be within easy reach of an international airport and with ample hotel accommodation.”

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has backed calls for Glasgow to host the competition.

Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken added: “Since it became a possibility that the UK might host on behalf of Ukraine we’ve been working hard on our bid.

“We know we meet all the technical requirements, and we know Glaswegians are desperate to welcome the world with open arms.

“Time is now really short to organise the contest and, having recently hosted COP, we know Glasgow is the safest of safe pairs of hands.”

An open letter has also been sent to the BBC by those backing the bid for Aberdeen to host the contest.

A spokesperson for Aberdeen City Council said the contest would provide a “major boost” to the economies of both the city and to Scotland.

“Aberdeen has a track record of delivering major international events and now that the EBU has confirmed that the BBC will host the 2023 Eurovision song contest, we will look at the next steps in terms of the shortlisting process,” they said.

“The council has already instructed officers to continue the dialogue with relevant stakeholders and to look at the implications for the council of hosting this international event and its huge fanbase.

“The Eurovision Song Contest is a massive event with a worldwide audience. We have the city, the people and infrastructure to support international events such as this and it would provide a major boost to the Aberdeen and Scottish economies and raise the city’s profile with potential investors and visitors.”