It’s only been a couple of days since France took the victory in Junior Eurovision this year. However, French Head of Delegation Alexandra Redde-Amiel is already talking about the possibility of hosting the contest in 2021.
A desire to host next year
In an interview with 20 Minutes, Alexandra Redde-Amiel spoke about her emotions following Valentina’s win on Sunday. Saying that she was swinging between ‘fatigue, emotion and joy’.
On the day after France’s victory, she said:
‘It’s the culmination of a lot of teamwork. We’ve been on it for eight months. We’ve been carrying this with the health crisis. A lot of times, we wondered if it was going to take place, if we were going to be able to go.
Valentina carried us through this. She trained us, motivated us, stimulated us and made us want to fight. It was a challenge, we had to adapt, think and do things differently. Valentina has always been there to say: ‘I’m up for it!’.
It is one of the best examples of victory, to say that nothing is impossible.’
Alexandra Redde-Amiel, Head of Delegation for France
When asked if France will host next year’s Junior Eurovision, she responded:
‘We are of course very keen to host Junior Eurovision in France next year. Delphine Ernotte (President of France Télévisions) is very keen to do it. We will first savour and then discuss with the presidency of Eurovision and the EBU to find out how we can organize the 2021 edition, and if it will be possible to do so. You have to speak with them before formalising anything but in any case, the wish is there.’
Alexandra Redde-Amiel on the possibility of France hosting the 2021 contest
A thank you to the French Eurofans
Another question asked by 20 Minutes was if this win will restore the image of Eurovision in France. To that, Alexandra answered:
‘Eurovision is a very popular brand. I take this opportunity to thank the French Eurofans, who were once again exceptional in this 2020 edition. They are there, they support us, they send us words, tell us to never let it down. They stimulate us. Valentina was very moved. One of her first thanks, she said, was for them. Eurovision is a very important brand at France Télévisions and if to say that 43 years after Marie Myriam’s victory in 1977, we bring a trophy home, it puts balm in the heart.’
Alexandra on the support from French Eurofans
It was revealed that 1.2 million viewers watched Valentina win on France 2. The interest increased by 221,000 viewers compared to last year. However, the market share fell from 7.6% to 7.3%.
France in Junior Eurovision 2020
Valentina represented France this year with her entry ‘J’imagine’. It was written by Igit and Barbara Pravi, who also wrote ‘Bim Bam Toi’ from last year. Valentina won the contest with 200 points.
Would you like to see France host Junior Eurovision next year? Let us know in the comments!
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