Glasgow OVO Hydro Arena - Potential host of Eurovision 2023

It was used as the venue for the fictional Eurovision Song Contest depicted in the Netflix hit Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga. And now Eurofans and the Scottish media are wondering aloud if the Glasgow OVO Hydro could soon end up as the actual host venue for Eurovision 2023. 

As you’re well-aware by now, Ukraine won Eurovision 2022 and has already announced its hope to host the contest next year. But given the uncertainty and destruction caused by Russia’s war, people are understandably exploring the idea that Ukraine won’t be able to host.

In previous years when the winning country has been unable to host, the second place nation has been offered the job. The first instance of this occurred in 1960, when 1959 runners-up United Kingdom stepped up to host the contest after winners The Netherlands declined due to the expense.

Eurovision fans have noticed that the OVO Hydro has events listed for next spring and summer — with the glaring omission of May, when Eurovision normally takes place. We see that it will host the Magic Mike arena tour on 25 April and Ozzy Osbourne: No More Tours 2 on 4 June.

Eurovision typically requires that the venue be free for six weeks. With a few event cancellations, could organisers make the song contest happen in this window?

Could Glasgow host Eurovision 2023 inside OVO Hydro?

 

At least one member of the Scottish Parliament from Glasgow is already keen on the idea. As the Scottish Daily Express reports, Kaukab Stewart said: “Fantastic venue in Glasgow Kelvin Constituency to host Eurovision 2023, bring it on!”

It certainly has the infrastructure. In the coming months it will play host to artists including Andrea Bocelli, George Ezra, Swedish House Mafia, Machine Gun Kelly, Billy Idol, Westlife, Florence + The Machine, Justin Bieber and Eurovision winner Celine Dion. 

Given the top-notch artists it attracts, it’s no surprise that as recently as 2019, the venue was the second busiest in the world behind only Madison Square Garden in New York City. With more than one million visitors every year, it regularly features in the Top 10 list of busiest arenas globally, out-performing the likes of Manchester Arena in England and the Sydney Super Dome in Australia. 

The UK has hosted Eurovision more times than any other nation, with eight hostings across London, Edinburgh, Harrogate, Brighton and Birmingham. It has not, however, commented on the potential of hosting in 2023 — unlike several other broadcasters across Europe

On BBC’s Sunday Morning, Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng was intrigued by the possibility of a British city hosting the contest — but expressed confidence in the Ukrainian people to make Eurovision happen in their country next year.

Kwarteng said: “Of course it would be an honour for us to host [Eurovision] but I’m very clear that President Zelensky is fully confident that Ukraine will be able to host the contest next year, and I look forward to watching it there.”

Mykola Chernotytskyi, Head of the Managing Board of Ukraine’s UA:PBC, said that direct consultations the European Broadcasting Union started on Friday.

“We are doing our best, and I hope that the state will also support us in holding the Eurovision Song Contest here,” he said last week. “I hope that the Eurovision Song Contest will be held in peaceful Ukraine. However, I am saying once again that the security factor is important and the final decision will be taken together with the European Broadcasting Union. It will be a difficult negotiation, I am already sure of that.”

 

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vetrina
vetrina
1 year ago

My dream and delusion is to be hosted in Paris at the 20k capacity “La Defense Arena”

vetrina
vetrina
1 year ago
Reply to  vetrina

Lol it’s actually 40k!!!

Jesse O'Rourke
Jesse O'Rourke
1 year ago

We all know why and how Ukraine won . They shouldn’t host and they need to go for a few years along with Russia

Jamie
Jamie
1 year ago
Reply to  Jesse O'Rourke

Someone’s salty…
Why should Ukraine withdraw? For being the victim? You really sound like a pathetic russian troll right now.

Matrix 12
1 year ago

I don’t care who hosts the next Eurovision, just as long Barbara Schöneberger is the host.

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
1 year ago

The weather is really good right now and in May is normally good.

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
1 year ago

I REALLY don’t see Ukraine hosting this…or at least well. Even if the war is over, they NEED to use the money given to them wisely. Yes, Eurovision is good and unites people, but it’s gonna potentially waste a lot of money or attention that could be put on aiding its own people. Many people have had their houses blown up by bombs or destroyed due to the fighting. The country needs a few years to mentally prepare itself for doing big events with the rest of the world and it certainly wouldn’t be safe during a war or after… Read more »

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
1 year ago

We need a collaboration of Sam Ryder and Kalush during the interval.

Jofty
Jofty
1 year ago

Would prefer Chanel and Kalush

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago

I don’t understand how a Scottish town would represent the Scottish too much, but an English town would not represent the English too much.

LPS were robbed
LPS were robbed
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

You’re sort of hinting at one of the problems with the Glasgow proposal – and I’m speaking as a Eurofan who lives here – around half of the population dont feel that they are represented by the BBC, any of its entries since the 80s, or indeed anything that falls under the “UK” umbrella. We’d love to host despite all of this, but it feels a bit… illogical? There’s also the problem of Brexit (another thing that didn’t represent Scotland’s will, but anyway…) – the Westminster government have made it extremely difficult for us to welcome Ukrainian refugees here, and… Read more »

CasperDiCaprio
CasperDiCaprio
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

After all it’s the UK that won
The should have it in Space Man ?

Robbie
Robbie
1 year ago

So does that mean Norway or Switzerland should never host? They’re among the most expensive countries in Europe! Die-hard fans won’t care how much a pint of beer or a meal costs, they just want a terrific show. I’d love it to be staged in Glasgow, such a warm and friendly city and one of the most diverse in the UK and the BBC Scotland headquarters are right across the river from the Hydro. I do however think that if the contest is not being held in Ukraine (which seems extremely unlikely), then the EBU will simply announce the host… Read more »

Henno
Henno
1 year ago

There’s tonnes of people saying the BBC haven’t shown any interest in hosting…. no, they’ve not shown any PUBLIC interest in hosting. They’re a large, publicly responsible organisation that doesn’t jump up and down for anything unless it’s confirmed, approved, costs accounted and it’s actually happening. They don’t need to make media-savvy comments about an expressed interest in hosting. If they’re asked if they’re interested, they’ll run it by the board and then the process starts…

Darren Ochman
Darren Ochman
1 year ago

I think if the United Kingdom does end up hosting, I think Manchester would be a great host city. The MAN arena is more than capable. The city has a thriving arts, music, culture scene and a gay village. Transport connections are there too. And it would be 6 years since the arena bombing, so a sign of solidarity and unity through music …building some kind of bridge with Ukraine. I think Manchester. Also because I’m Irish, I wouldn’t say no to Belfast being host city either. I live almost equidistant between Dublin and Belfast so it would probably be… Read more »

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Darren Ochman

Nice post, dude. Manchester is a great city, strategically, aesthetically, culturally. Great host contender. And the area (previously MEN Arena, now AO Arean) is a great venue.

Catriona
Catriona
1 year ago
Reply to  Darren Ochman

Everything you’ve said about Manchester applies to Glasgow. If not more so, especially more than Belfast. It’s time for Scotland to host for only a second time.

UpinSpaceFan
UpinSpaceFan
1 year ago
Reply to  Darren Ochman

I agree, Manchester would be a fantastic choice. I’m still holding out hope that if Manchester is on the table, the Co-op Live Arena would be considered, although if not then the Manchester Arena would be fine.

CasperDiCaprio
CasperDiCaprio
1 year ago
Reply to  Darren Ochman

Belfast all the way, here are just 10 songs with Belfast in the lyrics
Plus you have great culture there outside of the music scene The Titanic Museum , Game if Thrones And the only Snug pubs left in the UK
The original Green Room !
10. Alternative Ulster, Stiff Little Fingers
9. Belfast, Boney M
8. Belfast, Energy Orchard
7. We Found Love, Rihanna , Calvin Harris
6. Stay, U2
5. Belfast Belfast, Clubsound
4. Cyprus Avenue, Van Morrison
3. Belfast, Barnbrack
2. Tell Me Ma, Sham Rock
1. Belfast Child, Simple Minds

Jay
Jay
1 year ago
Reply to  Darren Ochman

Manchester, like its people, is such a sewer. London or Cardiff or somewhere, at least nice, where people speak correctly…

Henno
Henno
1 year ago

Well, unlucky for you, if you’re Spanish, you didn’t come second.. so tough. Enjoy the clouds and rain. UK 2023.

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
1 year ago
Reply to  Henno

LOL it’s a heatwave currently here.

Henno
Henno
1 year ago

Many large venues require scheduled maintenance, rennovation etc and often have downtime to factor this in. I wouldn’t read too much into the Glasgow lead.

Henno
Henno
1 year ago

Guys, a pan-European mass gathering in Ukraine is out of the question… delegations would literally go to Ukraine uninsured; it’s a warzone…. A Ukrainian ESC isn’t going to happen next year. It will be in another European country, as much as we’d love it to be in Kyiv. These are facts.

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
1 year ago
Reply to  Henno

EXACTLY.

Nathan
Nathan
1 year ago

It’s not THAT pricey here (especially in Scotland) compared to many other European countries. Also, we don’t have control over the weather…but it’s really not as bad as people make it out to be.

ESCVictorIn2999
ESCVictorIn2999
1 year ago

The Ukrainian National Opera in Kyiv reopened yesterday for the first time since the war began. While the costs involved make me think it’s still more likely than not Eurovision 2023 will be held outside Ukraine, I do think we’re underestimating the chances the Ukrainians will put in a real effort to try to hold the contest on home soil.

UpinSpaceFan
UpinSpaceFan
1 year ago

The National Opera House has a capacity of under 2,000. Completely unviable per the EBU’s requirements for the host venue.

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  UpinSpaceFan

I think the point is that culture can carry on, it will keep going through it all.

Catriona
Catriona
1 year ago

The EBU will not offer sentimentality. Ukraine has 3 to 4 months to prove it can host. And it can’t. It will not be held un Ukraine.

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago

Big decisions like this should not be made for the few thousand people lucky enough to worry about such things. The contest is for the people at home, who won’t care about any of that.

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

Of course they are welcome, but if they don’t like it, don’t come.

I don’t want any slogan next year, they’ve used them all up and I don’t think they really add anything anyway. Retire the idea.

Tomi
Tomi
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

This. “I don’t want any slogan next year, they’ve used them all up and I don’t think they really add anything anyway. Retire the idea.” Finally, someone said it. Bravo, Jonas!

Roo
Roo
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

I would agree with you Whisker. But we read too many comments from people on this site who only think about their next holiday and what suits them.

Hyunwoo
Hyunwoo
1 year ago

Why not, it’s not a bad city for me

Joe
Joe
1 year ago

It’s all just fab speculation. A spokesperson for the venue has confirmed it here. https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/glasgow-ovo-hydro-bosses-respond-24025485 If it does go to the UK I think there’d have to be a bidding process as there’s a number of cities that have the infrastructure and would be keen to host. I’d love to see it in my home city of Newcastle, but realistically I think it’s too small for such a huge event and the airport is rubbish. I’d say it’d be between London, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow or Belfast. Liverpool could be in with a shout too. Even though it’s on the small… Read more »

Joe
Joe
1 year ago
Reply to  Joe

Fan speculation. Bloody autocorrect!

Oy oy
Oy oy
1 year ago

If Ukraine can’t hold it, let Glasgow do it while the UK still exists 🙂

CasperDiCaprio
CasperDiCaprio
1 year ago
Reply to  Oy oy

London could upgrade the whole arena experience Can you imagine a mega Eurovision at the O2 with the Abba Voyage experience as an add on instead of the dated post card section

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Oy oy

It can still be in Glasgow when Scotland win.

esc_fl
esc_fl
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

Or the United Kingdom.

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
1 year ago
Reply to  esc_fl

Or Wales.

Or Cornwall…

Jay
Jay
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

The name is the United Kingdom. Scotland does not exist in Eurovision

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Oy oy

The UK as we know it isn’t going anywhere, pal…

Green Andy
Green Andy
1 year ago

Birmingham Resorts World (NEC Arena next to Birmingham International Airport) ) only has Elton John on 19th April and nothing in May. It holds nearly 17k, has loads of hotels nearby and is next to motorways and an airport. What else do you need?!

Tjcat
1 year ago
Reply to  Green Andy

If it’s Birmingham let it be the utilita arena (old NIA) once more. The arena is big enough, recently upgraded and it’s in a much nicer setting, canal sides, bars cafes hotels, next to the convention centre, that could be used.
In fact it’s a much more pleasant arena and surrounding area than Manchesters AO arena which seems to be too of lots of peoples lists

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Tjcat

That’s exactly where it was the last time, though.

Tjcat
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

That’s ok isn’t it? It wil be 27 years difference. The Globen Stockholm hosted twice in a similar space of time

Tjcat
1 year ago
Reply to  Tjcat

Edit; 25!years ?

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Tjcat

You’re right, I suppose it’s not that big of a deal. It was nice to see another Swedish city get it in between the two Globens, though.

HarpyDarper
HarpyDarper
1 year ago
Reply to  Tjcat

I would be very happy to see Manchester get it, but the arenas location concerns me. Not that’s it’s ugly or remote, but is it a little too congested, is there enough room for the back of house stuff?

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
1 year ago
Reply to  Green Andy

Birmingham has also hosted MANY successful Eurovisions. I went to this arena where these athletics championships were going on and it was revealed very discretly to us that that was where Eurovision was in I believe 1998?!

Jay
Jay
1 year ago
Reply to  Green Andy

Who on earth would want to go to that horrible city with Scousers?

Purple Mask
Purple Mask
1 year ago

Ahaha, fiction creating reality. Hmmm. There would be some logistical issues, but it’s possible. Surely it’s Spain’s turn though.

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Purple Mask

Sorry, how is it Spain’s turn?

Ellen
Ellen
1 year ago

Too dangerous to give the organisation to Ukraine. Better leave it to the UK or Poland. But I hope Ukraine won’t participate cause they’ll win again whatever the chosen song.

Oy oy
Oy oy
1 year ago
Reply to  Ellen

I can’t really see EBU letting Poland organize it after the cheating.

Mirko
Mirko
1 year ago
Reply to  Ellen

It’s very likely that Ukraine is going to win televote many times in a row – even in Jesc if they’ll partecipate in December.

CasperDiCaprio
CasperDiCaprio
1 year ago

Actually the UK has already made a formal request to host in 2023 However it would be unfair not to have a biding process I’d favour a city like Liverpool Newcastle or Cardiff over the obvious UK contenders
Im also not keen on the SNP hijacking the event as they did with the COP

Thallo
Thallo
1 year ago
Reply to  CasperDiCaprio

Why Cardiff? It’s largest arena only has a capacity of 7500, not to mention it’s pretty outdated too. Cardiff isn’t as well connected to the rest of Europe either.

Manchester, Birmingham, London and Glasgow would be the frontrunners.

AndersP
AndersP
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

Millennium Stadium seats about 80,000 for rugby – it has a roof. Would be an amazing venue.

Catriona
Catriona
1 year ago
Reply to  AndersP

That’s too many seats. The semis wouldn’t come close to selling out, and the acoustics would be twice as bas Dusseldorf.

Tjcat
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

Size doesn’t always matter (Oo-er!) Malmo, Kiev and Tel -Aviv weren’t massive but still put on great shows. The BBC has a strong production hub in Cardiff. I’m not saying it’s an ideal place but it should be ruled out. The history of host venues in the UK suggests it is Wales’ turn

CasperDiCaprio
CasperDiCaprio
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

Turin was not that connected, and the tickets most people I know want via Venice then a train Whats the big deal ?

Thallo
Thallo
1 year ago
Reply to  CasperDiCaprio

Turin was a mess, let’s not use it as an example.

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

It absolutely was a mess. It was a really lacklustre production. Still, the charm of the Italians shone through, I found. I did enjoy this year. For me, the slickest production in recent years was Israel – their show SMASHED it.

HarpyDarper
HarpyDarper
1 year ago
Reply to  Henno

I’ve seen a few fans moan about this Italian contest, saying it was ‘a lacklustre production’- I find that a tad ungrateful. I thought it was a lovely production!

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  HarpyDarper

Sorry, it’s not about being ‘grateful’ – we didn’t get the Eurovision 2022 for free, gratis as a gift. Delegations and their representative broadcasters pay millions of euros to support, subscribe and enter the competition – so yes, a fantastical show, pushing the boundaries of production in concept, light, visuals, organisation and general presentation is expected, considering the ESC ranks among the world’s most watched non-sporting events every year. The show this year was formulaic, confused in its ethos – ‘the sound of beaut’ – (what does that even mean?), shouty, confused presenters and typical Italian TV standards. Did I… Read more »

Jay
Jay
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

Why was it a mess? Compared to 1991 they hosted beautifully!

HarpyDarper
HarpyDarper
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

Ah the CIA- too small and dilapidated for a contest today (and probably not adequate in 1998), but I enjoy going there. There are however, plans for a ritzy new arena down the Bay- give it five/six years from now!

Catriona
Catriona
1 year ago
Reply to  CasperDiCaprio

The EBU wouldn’t let them hijack. But also bear mind they are the Scottish government. They are responsible for everything going smoothly. It has experience of events far bigger than Eurovision. It’s the right time for the Hydro and Glasgow to host.

LPS were robbed
LPS were robbed
1 year ago
Reply to  Catriona

“Hijack” here = not involviing a country’s head of state in the organisation of an international summit that takes place in said country. It’s an interesting definition of the term, to say the least.

Helena
Helena
1 year ago

Guys what happens if the Queen dies one week before Eurovision?

Lollipopmonster
Lollipopmonster
1 year ago
Reply to  Helena

the beloved queen will not die soon ….she has the strong genes of her mother and father …so don’t worry. Long lives the queen ?.

Helena
Helena
1 year ago

Long live of course, but what it is a fact that we all will die. And our death won’t impact Eurovision, but of UK hosts and she dies they have a serious problem.

Oy oy
Oy oy
1 year ago
Reply to  Helena

This is like fearing that the king of Norway, queen of Denmark or any other head of state might die just before the contest.

Helena
Helena
1 year ago
Reply to  Oy oy

Obviously it’s not the same the significance of Queen Elizabeth to the rest. It would be a global ceremony

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Helena

What? She is head of state to two Eurovision countries only.

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

Dunno. France pulled out of 1974 after Georges Pompidou died, but they weren’t the host. Maybe it would still go ahead, but just for the rest of Europe, with the BBC not broadcasting it at home until after the funeral.

The things we think about…

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

I doubt the contest will be in Abu Dhabi.

Jofty
Jofty
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

As long as some shouts “yass queen” every two minutes it will be OK. Preferably Tomasz Schafernaker in one of his tight suits.

Jo.
Jo.
1 year ago
Reply to  Helena

in memoriam segment

LPS were robbed
LPS were robbed
1 year ago
Reply to  Jo.

A solemn dance act in semi final one, Sam Ryder can sing “Don’t Stop Me Now” (sad acoustic version). Sorted.

Tomi
Tomi
1 year ago
Reply to  Helena

Oh my!… Some people think of literally everything. Every possible scenario. I’m at a loss for words.

LPS were robbed
LPS were robbed
1 year ago
Reply to  Helena

Then we get something fun to watch intsead of the inevitable boring rolling news coverage, so it’s a win! Unless you were thinking about getting her to host for some reason.

LPS were robbed
LPS were robbed
1 year ago
Reply to  Helena

This is Ukraine’s show, and whoever hosts it physically is there to facilitate that. So it wouldn’t really matter, unless the broadcaster has a hitherto unrevealed fondness for the british monarchy for some reason

Jay
Jay
1 year ago
Reply to  Helena

That is unkind. She might outlive you!

vetrina
vetrina
1 year ago

No more third fourth cities! Please give it to London, it has tons of choices for the fans! Turin was a mess!

Emilie
Emilie
1 year ago
Reply to  vetrina

Londons hosted 4 times already. Hotels are ridiculously overpriced and the Eurovillage would be nowhere near the venue. You can’t create a “Eurovision environment” for fans to meet likeminded fans in a city as big and as busy as London. F**k London.

Nathan
Nathan
1 year ago
Reply to  vetrina

But there’s so much more in the UK than London! Places with unique cultures, music scenes, and certainly more friendly people…

Jay
Jay
1 year ago
Reply to  vetrina

Torino was not a mess sb

Liam Lindsay
Liam Lindsay
1 year ago

This is just window dressing. Glasgow really isn’t a logistical host city. 1. Even though it has SOME flights to the continent they are few and far between with the majority of flights are to Spain, France, UK (including Channel Islands and Isle of Man). Most will have to either change at Manchester Airport/Heathrow and get a second flight to Glasgow or take a 3hr Train from Manchester Piccadilly. 2. Hotel Rooms are not the best and are scattered far wide and can become very pricey very quickly especially during events, just like London. 3.The UK is facing a huge… Read more »

Oy oy
Oy oy
1 year ago
Reply to  Liam Lindsay

I actually think Bulgaria would have won in 2020 but we will never know.

Jo.
Jo.
1 year ago

I’m team Moldova
Manifesting Chisinau 2023, kirkorovless pls

Xxx
Xxx
1 year ago
Reply to  Jo.

Do they even have a venue?

Ga89
Ga89
1 year ago
Reply to  Xxx

They built a venue last year I believe… 5.000 seats.

Jofty
Jofty
1 year ago
Reply to  Jo.

You could fly into Bucharest then take that train?

ESC Stan
ESC Stan
1 year ago

Given UK’s sudden upward trajectory and what it could possibly mean for future acts, would they want to put themselves in a position where they might have to host twice? Not commenting on next year’s entry, but if they continue they could be one to be the one to watch.

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  ESC Stan

“might have to host twice” – The BBC has renevue of £5.064 billion and the UK is in the top-5 world economies. Not that it matters ONE BIT about the financial status of a proud country hosting a great ESC show, but worrying about hosting it twice really isn’t an issue of ANY concern….

Anhel
Anhel
1 year ago

I am now in my head reading all the comments below in the appropriate Brittish accent for the opinion in question, it’s entertaining. I also add “mate” and “bollocks” here and there.

runar
runar
1 year ago

What about Iceland hosting the Eurovision 2023?

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  runar

Second place should host in the event of first place unable. End of.

Thallo
Thallo
1 year ago

Why hasn’t France offered to host yet? They’re the only big-5 country to not offer to host next year.

Personally, I’d like to see one of Ukraine’s best friends host. Germany, Poland, Lithuania and Georgia all rank pretty high on Ukraine’s best-friends list. However, as Poland was caught up in the cheating scandal I doubt the EBU want to work closely with them. Georgia and Lithuania have no interest in hosting, so I think Germany would make the perfect host. Berlin 2023, anyone?

Jghtl
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

Choosing the host country is not that simple. It’s not like “Oh you are my best friend, why don’t you host it, even if you don’t want to or can’t”

Thallo
Thallo
1 year ago
Reply to  Jghtl

We already know that? That’s why I crossed off Georgia or Lithuania hosting. Even though they’re Ukraine’s closest allies, they can’t/wont host.

So, we’re left with Germany.

LPS were robbed
LPS were robbed
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

Poland seems logical to me, if they’re willing. They’re just next door and they’ve hosted the junior contest recenty. Call me a cynic, but I don’t think the cheating scandal would be a dealbreaker, especially since they’ve not kicked up much of a fuss about being caught.

Helena
Helena
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

France has the Olympics.

CasperDiCaprio
CasperDiCaprio
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

France has the olympics in 24 they can hardly afford I doubt they want Eurovision

tvescfan
tvescfan
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

France hosted JESC few months ago and will host Eurovision Young Musicians in July. Don’t worry France does his job to welcome Eurovision events.

tvescfan
tvescfan
1 year ago
Reply to  tvescfan

*their job

Ed Pevensie
Ed Pevensie
1 year ago

(London)Derry 2023 pleeease!

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Ed Pevensie

Ireland need to go back to the drawing board. Stat.

Tomi
Tomi
1 year ago

Yes to Glasgow. Give them that, please. Or else, they’ll leave the UK for good.

Thallo
Thallo
1 year ago
Reply to  Tomi

Scotland will eventually leave the union, regardless if they host Eurovision or not.

Lollipopmonster
Lollipopmonster
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

Thallo – and that is good for Scotland (to leave the union they hate so much). Scotland will be very welcome (back) here in Europe. Okay, this is political stuff – and that is not my part to decide that.

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Thallo

You wanna bet it on it? Not in this financial climate they won’t – lol. Run a referendum next week and see what happens. The London lifeline is doing its thing pretty good right now….

Jay
Jay
1 year ago
Reply to  Tomi

Good riddence

Vale
Vale
1 year ago

Boris Johnson and the conservative parties are so desperate about the fact the Scotland and North Ireland are up in arms and want to leave the UK that now they will even let Scotland to host Eurovision. Desperation….

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Vale

Utter nonsense and conjecture. Stop poltically willy-waving, you’re too small to notice.

Jamie
Jamie
1 year ago
Reply to  Henno

Don’t worry, both of them will leave eventually. UK will be left alone in its medieval “union” with a half-dead queen dining on taxpayer’s money.

Eli Grant Weinmann
Eli Grant Weinmann
1 year ago

Wouldn’t Magic Mike being scheduled for April 25 conflict with the stage building and tech rehearsals?

Jofty
Jofty
1 year ago

Magic Mike could be the interval act?

Saul Browne
1 year ago

I think it has been cancelled

Dolly
Dolly
1 year ago

Please not Scotland they want to leave the United Kingdom

Sam
Sam
1 year ago
Reply to  Dolly

With attitudes like that we gonnae be more likely to go

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Sam

Not in this financial climate, you’re not. Run a referendum next week and see what happens? Thought not.

xxx
xxx
1 year ago
Reply to  Dolly

Please not the UK, they left the EU

Tjcat
1 year ago
Reply to  xxx

Did you complain when Israel and Ukraine hosted?
What would you suggest if Switzerland or Norway won?
Is leaving any worse than not wanting to join the EU in the first place? The reasons are not dissimilar.

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Tjcat

They are. Valid reasoning for one, uninformed nationalism for the other.

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
1 year ago
Reply to  Tjcat

What about Russia hosting when Dima Bilan won?!

Saul
Saul
1 year ago
Reply to  xxx

Glasgow didn’t even vote to leave the EU, it voted overwhelming to stay

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  xxx

What on EARTH does the EU have to do with Eurovision, you utter imbecile.

LPS were robbed
LPS were robbed
1 year ago
Reply to  Henno

It makes logistical issues around travel, transport and work easier for the large number of participating countries who are in or have sensible and longstanding reciprocal arrangements with the EU, you delightful person.

Jay
Jay
1 year ago
Reply to  xxx

There are other countries also not in the EU. Shut your dirty mouth

Go_A Stan
Go_A Stan
1 year ago

They’re probably going to bid for it, and use the availability as a selling point, don’t think anyone’s decided anything yet

Meckie
Meckie
1 year ago

1980 ESC was in the Netherlands, a random country and not 2nd place of ESC 1979.

Tjcat
1 year ago

Strange way of forcing a story from nothing. I thought I’d take a look at other UK arenas and their availability next May, and guess what? The first two I looked at both have nothing on in May 2023!
(Just to add though, I think Glasgow would be a great choice)

Sam
Sam
1 year ago

The British Govt sent COP26 to Glasgow and the Scottish Events Campus (which the hydro is part of) partially as to say hey this is the stuff you get when you’re part of the UK. I would imagine the govt doing the same with this and pressuring the BBC to host it up in Glasgow (no other suitable venues in Scotland), alongside ‘levelling up’ there’s no chance we’d have it in London. Glasgow has great infrastructure tho, and alongside Edinburgh could host all the events between the two cities. Plus they could probably make the Scottish govt put money towards… Read more »

Nicolas
Nicolas
1 year ago

On what honour should the UK host ? It only came second because of some aggregate votes.
If Ukraine can’t host it’s anyway an all ukrainian presentation, and the show must still be producedand presentated by the ukrainians not the BBC and some brits pretending the are the 2022 winners.

Tjcat
1 year ago
Reply to  Nicolas

You clearly dislike the uk

Jay
Jay
1 year ago
Reply to  Nicolas

It came second. Ukraine in this time of war could not host. Celoso mucho…

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Nicolas

Nicolas – you are a salty, pessimistic, snot-nosed imbecile. Regards, a Brit.

Jamie
Jamie
1 year ago
Reply to  Henno

Sure sound like a stuck-up brit.

Ethan
Ethan
1 year ago

People wanted Ukraine to win in a clearly political way, let Ukraine host it and see who takes part

Gav
Gav
1 year ago
Reply to  Ethan

I feel the Ukrainian people need money, they are asking for weapons, food and eventually a need to rebuild hospitals, schools, homes. I’m not sure how I feel about the Ukraine funding Eurovision or asking for donations for the funding when their are serious priorities.

Equally I would respect and live for a contest to be in peaceful Ukraine.

Tomi
Tomi
1 year ago
Reply to  Gav

Adding to this. Imagine how many prostheses you can buy with the money you’ll spend organising the contest… For the people who lost arms & legs… Now That’s a really serious issue.

Fatima
Fatima
1 year ago
Reply to  Ethan

Not political, Ethan. Emotional.

rjplopes
rjplopes
1 year ago
Reply to  Ethan

Oh the bitterness!

raylee
raylee
1 year ago

why not Manchester Arena or London The O2 Arena?

Tjcat
1 year ago
Reply to  raylee

Why not Glasgow?

kirkirkir
1 year ago

The UK and Australia are the only two countries participating in the ESC which require the entry visa for Ukrainian citizens. Since Australia cannot host anyway, that’s just one.
Is it really a good option for the contest be held in the place where the winning nation’s presence is limited by the bureaucracy tho we have plenty of other potential venues?

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  kirkirkir

Happy Election Day, Australia!

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

Byebye, Scott Morrison…

euroboy
euroboy
1 year ago
Reply to  kirkirkir

Not just them, people in the Balkans in the countries not in EU also need visa for the UK – Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia. Not to mention more countries the East like Moldova, Georgia…

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  euroboy

Other countries have made an exception for Ukrainian refugees. The UK has not.

Bonny
Bonny
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

Ukraine has Visa free regime with EU countries since 2016

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Bonny

Not the whole EU. Refugees should never need a visa anywhere.

LPS were robbed
LPS were robbed
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

For me, this is the #1 reason why the UK should not be hosting. It would be really hypocritical: “Hey, so about all of those children and pensioners who’re shivering in bomb shelters…we’re not interested, you can keep them. But we’ll be super happy to hold Eurovision on your behalf. You’re welcome!”

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  kirkirkir

DiS cOuNtRy HaS vIsAs – Yeah, it does – because we’ve had Russians poisining British nations with nerve agents in recent times. Get with it. We’re protecting ourselves with extra vetting, not telling you to buggar off. Only a small-minding simpleton would take offence at the fact that a visa requirement is a bloody insult. Imbecile.

LPS were robbed
LPS were robbed
1 year ago
Reply to  Henno

Are you Priti Patel? Because it takes a rare and special mind to come up with an argument like that, and she’s the only other person I’ve seen attempting to make it.

Yudhistira Mahasena
1 year ago

I know a lot of people knew the OVO Hydro from the Eurovision movie, which I can understand. International superstars have held their concerts there, and it’s awesome. However, London does have two international-scale event venues that CAN certainly host Eurovision 2023 (if Ukraine will not be able to host): The O2 Arena and the OVO Arena, Wembley. Both of them have a height of more than 18 meters, which is the requirement for a Eurovision venue. For me, the OVO Arena, Wembley can certainly host Eurovision 2023. I figure that the smaller the venue is for an international-scale event,… Read more »

Þórir
Þórir
1 year ago

It’s not going to be Wembley or even likely London by any chance, The amount of football events going on around that area in May would make handling the crowds a logistical nightmare

euroboy
euroboy
1 year ago

Why does it have to be in the UK? I really love London, and I am always happy to get there as a tourist. But in the context of Eurovision I wouldn’t like next year to be organized there. Especially because lots of people there ignored their contestant and supported Ukraine more than Sam just because they found it more realistic Ukraine to win. Some of them were like ‘Ukraine has to win, newspapers say that we might organize it instead of them.’ I am very sorry for the contestants who competed this year. I feel like their dedication and… Read more »

Henno
Henno
1 year ago

lol so many downvotes for London hosting… why?!

Hannah
Hannah
1 year ago

I’m from the UK and I can’t see it happening. I’m sure Boris Johnson would like to say “look at us helping Ukraine” but the BBC aren’t jumping up and down about it and haven’t expressed an interest publicly. It would be fun to recreate the Eurovision Fire Saga movie but I really think Spain want to host.

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Hannah

Tory policy is to hate all public television. The BBC might love to host the contest, but they are in grave danger as it is. With Boris cutting their funding, another big bill is the last thing they need.

Jofty
Jofty
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

Put it on Channel 4 with Nadine Dorries as the host (not)

Ares
Ares
1 year ago
Reply to  Hannah

As a Spaniard, I don’t want Spain to host the Contest. I prefer if RTVE focuses of producing another good Benidorm Fest and waits until we eventually win, whenever it is, rather than spending resources in hosting the 2023 Contest

Tjcat
1 year ago
Reply to  Hannah

The bbc are always very quiet till things are a done deal

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Hannah

Hannah, love – you should know that the BBC is a public-owned corporation and don’t ‘jump up and down’ for anything unless it’s approved and confirmed as actually happening. This isn’t some backalley cable TV firm….

Emilio
Emilio
1 year ago

The UK, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands should quit speculating on the host city. Like, why are you offering if no one asked you yet. It’s rude.

If Ukraine will not be able to host (likely scenario) it’s their choice to whom delegate the honour. I think the most appropriate option is that a neighbouring country with strong cultural and political ties to Ukraine lends their safe city and venues, but the event is still hosted by UA:PBC.

One day, I would love to see Eurovision in the UK tho. I bet the hosting would be phenomenal.

Alaska
Alaska
1 year ago
Reply to  Emilio

Word.

Anon
Anon
1 year ago
Reply to  Emilio

I don’t think any of them have said it that way. Spain said it before the liveshows (referring to the event in which Spain would win), Italy and Netherlands were both asked whether they would host again and said they would if they were asked and the UK hasn’t said anything, it’s just an empty venue – it’a not UK’s fault Wiwibloggs (and other media) create a story based on this.

Vale
Vale
1 year ago
Reply to  Anon

That’s false. Italy (aka RAI) never said they want to host. RAI director said they will help Ukraine to host in their country and offer any support. That’s it. Only the mayor of Turin said he would host it. But he doesn’t represent Italy or RAI.

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Emilio

“Why are you offering if no one asked” – sorry, are you like – 12?

Emilio
Emilio
1 year ago
Reply to  Henno

How bold of me to assume that people knew the concept of rhetorical questions…

Here’s a clue: “sorry, are you like – 12?” is a rhetorical question too.

The Voice of Reason
The Voice of Reason
1 year ago
Reply to  Emilio

The Ukraine are too weak to host. It’s like asking a friend for help.

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago

1960 was the first and only instance of the runner-up hosting.

Alaska
Alaska
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

The article gives the impression that a runner-up hosting is the rule in case the winner can’t/doesn’t want to host (well, it’s not, there’s no such rule). It also gives the impression that this had happened more often in the past (actually, only in 7 occasions, the last one being in 1980…), and it “strategically” picks the only time the UK hosted as runner-up (exactly in 1960). It also gives the impression that we should all start discussing alternatives when Ukraine is still the country that owns the right to host next year, and I honestly think we should all… Read more »

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Alaska

I’m not sure if it was as calculated as that, but yeah, facts are facts.

Alaska
Alaska
1 year ago
Reply to  Jonas

If it wasn’t as calculated as that, then the article is just sloppy and poorly researched. Given the fact that this is the “most popular eurovision-related blog”, I don’t really know which scenario I prefer, to be honest…

WeAreWhitChanel
WeAreWhitChanel
1 year ago

One question for all the English people. The main country is the UK or the countries are England, Scotland, Wales and the north Ireland

James
James
1 year ago

Not from the UK myself but from what I understand, the UK is a “country of countries”, each with its own degree of autonomy. Not all British people are English, but also Welsh, Scots, and Northern Irish, as well as Cornish, Manx, etc. 🙂

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  James

A united kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  James

The Isle of Man is not part of the UK.

Yes, there is nothing too small for me to nitpick.

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago

Why just ask the English? That seems to be the whole problem…

Þórir
Þórir
1 year ago

I’m not British but the answer is… its complicated. English folks tend to consider themselves a more British identity (as British culture tends to mean English culture for many abroad) and then English as seen as equal to or the same as that Scottish and Welsh folks usually tend to identify as Scottish or Welsh as the main country. North Ireland is complicated, some identify as British, some identify as simply Irish, some as Northern Irish and some as all 3 or a mix of several of those As for Manx as someone here mentioned they aint even considered part… Read more »

Henno
Henno
1 year ago

You’ve quite literally intended to ask a question without asking a question; you’ve stated a fact.

Alex
Alex
1 year ago

Glasgow is expensive, just checked some prices… i think Manchester would be the first option for BBC, unless Scotland puts pressure to host the show there.

By the way, BBC has not confirmed interest to host Eurovision unlike other broadcasters (RAI, RTVE, ATROS) that have done already.

I’d prefer Spain, Poland or Netherlands to be honest.

Tjcat
1 year ago
Reply to  Alex

If it’s in the uk I could see Manchester being the obvious choice, it has a large arena and a strong BBC presence.
But there are many other amazing cities all with fantastic arenas. The one in Manchester is quite ugly and soulless.

Henno
Henno
1 year ago
Reply to  Alex

No, wrong and conjecturous – the BBC have not PUBLICLY stated that they are interested – it’s a public corporation, they don’t throw around media-savvy statements like the smaller broadcasters in Europe….

David
David
1 year ago

I would love for my city to host Eurovision.
Scotland is an open and friendly country, Glasgow has just hosted COP26, The SEC is next door to the Hydro which could act as a press centre and the Riverside and Glasgow Green could be Eurovillage.

If this was to happen, I’d love a song to represent the UK in Gaelic!

Alex
Alex
1 year ago
Reply to  David

Scotland in general would be a friendly nation and very passionate about ESC. They are proud people that would love to get the opportunity to show their country to the rest of Europe.

Jonas
Jonas
1 year ago
Reply to  Alex

Lulu for the interval.

Catriona
Catriona
1 year ago
Reply to  David

Scots Gaelic is an awful, half dead language.

LPS were robbed
LPS were robbed
1 year ago
Reply to  Catriona

Aw cmon we could do our own “Fulenn”, it’d be great:) But *no dancing with the devil on a Sunday*, or the local minister will throw you to the seagulls…

Rifki
Rifki
1 year ago

what some people fail to realize is that, in order to host Eurovision, most (if not all) events that are initially scheduled in April should also be relocated, because of the extra amount of time to construct the stage and to do stand-in rehearsals.