As a new Eurovision season took off and a host city secured, broadcasters continue to reveal their Eurovision 2020 plans. Although not yet official , Icelandic broadcaster (RUV) hints that Iceland will most likely not miss the party!
Confirmation expected later this month
According to our friends at Eurovoix, Icelandic broadcaster confirmed that they expect to take part at Eurovision next May in Rotterdam. Further, they added that official confirmation should arrive at the end of the month, around the same time when broadcasters submit paperwork for participation. Such intention to participate isn’t surprising considering that Eurovision is one of Iceland’s most popular TV programs. In fact, in 2019 98.4% of TV viewers followed Eurovision!
Unclear whether actions against broadcaster taken
Iceland’s 2019 representatives Hatari were one of the most talked about acts in the running to the 2019 contest. In Tel Aviv, they succeeded in ending a 4-year non-qualification streak and brought Iceland back to the top 10 for the first time since 2009. Controversially, however, they also waved scarves with the flag of Palestine after receiving the televote points. At the moment, it is unknown whether the Icelandic broadcaster faced any consequences for that act issued by the Reference Group of Eurovision.
Iceland at the Eurovision Song Contest
Iceland first debuted at Eurovision back in 1986 with ICY and their song “Gleðibankinn” ending in 16th place. To date, Iceland only missed Eurovision in two occasions in 1998 and 2002, both times due to relegation rules in place at the time. Although the country has yet to win the contest, they reached second place twice, in 1999 with Selma’s “All Out of Luck” and Yohanna’s “Is it True?“. Additionally, they reached the top 10 in four other instances: in 1990, 1992, 2003 and 2019.
Are you happy Iceland will likely be there in Rotterdam? Who would you like to see represent Iceland? What is your favourite Icelandic entry so far?
Let us know in the comment section below or on all social media platforms @ESCXTRA.
