Mart Normet to step down as Head of Delegation after Lisbon

It has been officially confirmed by Estonian broadcaster ERR that their Head of Delegation, Mart Normet, will step down from the role following the Eurovision Song Contest 2018 in Lisbon, Portugal, after ten years in the position.

10 years of constant growth

The press release from the Estonian broadcaster confirmed the news with a full statement from Mart Normet:

“We’ve had 10 years of constant growth and transformed what was merely a Eurovision selection tool into the most important pop music event in Estonia. I am so proud of the work that we’ve achieved here, but after so long at the top, it’s time for some fresh blood.
Progress and innovation is born out of charting unknown territory and I am starting to feel like I know all the answers. In environments as dynamic as music and television this can only slow down progress.
So after Portugal I will step down as Estonian Head of Delegation and Executive Producer of Eesti Laul. It’s important for me to leave while we’re still at the top of our game to allow someone new to come in and make their mark on what we’ve created.
I’ve not decided what is coming next for me, but I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Unless we win Eurovision this year, in which case I am definitely doing Eurovision in Tallinn!”

Mart Normet was appointed Head of Entertainment at Estonian public broadcaster ERR in late spring 2008 and became the HoD and Executive Producer of the first Eesti Laul competition in autumn the same year. ERR wish Mart all the best with whatever adventure he takes on next.

Estonia at the Eurovision Song Contest

In their first eight appearances at the Eurovision Song Contest, Estonia received six top-ten finishes. However, since then, results have been more varied, including a five year run of non-qualification between 2005 and 2008. Since Mart Normet took charge of the process for Estonia, he has achieved a 50% qualification record and three top-ten results.

Both Urban Symphony and Ott Lepland finished in sixth place in 2009 and 2012 respectively.

The whole ESCXTRA team also wishes to send Mart the best regards for his future and thank him for his time working with us at the Eurovision Song Contest on many occasions. Aitäh!