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37 countries will compete in Eurovision 2023

Bulgaria, Montenegro and North Macedonia set to miss out on the Liverpool contest next May

Today the EBU has confirmed that 37 countries will participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 to be held in Liverpool, United Kingdom next May.

Liverpool to host 37 delegations for Eurovision 2023

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has confirmed a total of 37 countries will take part in the Liverpool hosted Eurovision Song Contest 2023.

We’re looking forward to welcoming artists from all 37 countries to Liverpool, the city of pop, next May. Next year’s competition promises to be an extra special one and we’re working hard with the BBC right now to ensure that hundreds of millions of viewers will enjoy the best Eurovision Song Contest yet, with Ukraine at the heart of the event.

Martin Österdahl, (Executive Supervisor)

With three less than the 40 that participated in the Turin contest, this marks the lowest figure since Copenhagen 2014. The increased cost of participation fees, the global cost of living crunch and overall financial uncertainty, are among the reasons cited for the withdrawing broadcasters.

Among the notable withdrawals include Bulgaria, as well as the recent shock announcements from Montenegro and North Macedonia.

Full list of Eurovision 2023 participants:

  • Albania (RTSH)
  • Armenia (ARMTV)
  • Australia (SBS)
  • Austria (ORF)
  • Azerbaijan (Ictimai)
  • Belgium (VRT)
  • Croatia (HRT)
  • Cyprus (CyBC)
  • Czech Republic (ČT)
  • Denmark (DR)
  • Estonia (ERR)
  • Finland (YLE)
  • France (FT)
  • Georgia (GPB)
  • Germany (ARD/NDR)
  • Greece (ERT)
  • Iceland (RÚV)
  • Ireland (RTÉ)
  • Israel (IPBC/KAN)
  • Italy (RAI)
  • Latvia (LTV)
  • Lithuania (LRT)
  • Malta (PBS)
  • Moldova (TRM)
  • The Netherlands (AVROTROS)
  • Norway (NRK)
  • Poland (TVP)
  • Portugal (RTP)
  • Romania (TVR)
  • San Marino (SMRTV)
  • Serbia (RTS)
  • Slovenia (RTVSLO)
  • Spain (TVE)
  • Sweden (SVT)
  • Switzerland (SRG/SSR)
  • Ukraine (UA:PBC)
  • United Kingdom (BBC) (Host)

The long and winding road to Liverpool 2023

Back in May, Kalush Orchestra won the hearts of Europe and Australia and claimed Ukraine’s third victory in the contest with the televote record-breaking, ‘Stefania‘. However over time it became clear Ukraine would not be able to host next years’ contest due to the ongoing invasion. After discussions between the EBU, winning broadcaster UA:PBC and runner-up broadcaster BBC, it was agreed for the BBC to adopt responsibility for the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 on behalf of Ukraine. Following a highly competitive bidding process, earlier this month it was finally revealed that the outside bet Liverpool, will host Eurovision 2023.

The shows will be organised by the BBC, but Ukraine’s UA:PBC will send representatives to help the British hosts “develop Ukrainian elements” in the production of the contest. The statement already announces that the logo (which has not yet been revealed) will reflect the special and unique circumstances behind this special hosting. It is indeed the first time since 1980 that the contest will be held outside the winning country.

The contest will take place in the M&S Bank Arena – rebranded temporarily to the ‘Liverpool Arena’ on May 9, 11 and 13.

We are incredibly proud to be hosting the Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of Ukraine and welcoming delegations from 37 countries to Liverpool next year. The BBC is committed to making the event a true reflection of Ukrainian culture and showcasing British creativity to a global audience.

Martin Green CBE

Are you excited for Eurovision 2023? Let us know! Be sure to stay updated by following @ESCXTRA on Twitter, @escxtra on Instagram, @escxtra on TikTok and liking our Facebook page for the latest updates! Also, be sure to follow us on Spotify for the latest music from your favourite Eurovision acts. As well as YouTube to see our reactions to the news in the run up to the new Eurovision season.

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