Malta’s Destiny has confirmed on Instagram that she will be missing the opening ceremony of Eurovision Song Contest 2021 due to protocols. A positive COVID-19 case has been detected in the hotel the Maltese delegation is staying. EBU is also reporting that Romanian delegation won’t attend the opening ceremony for the same reason.
Four delegations missing the opening ceremony
The delegations of Poland and Iceland won’t be attending the opening ceremony, as a member of each delegation has been tested positive for COVID-19. As a precautionary measure, the delegations from Romania and Malta will not take part in the Turquoise Carpet event, on Sunday 16 May, following these positive COVID-19 in delegations, who are staying at the same hotel.
All participating artists received a PCR test yesterday (Saturday 15 May) in preparation for their appearance on the Carpet. All members of the Maltese and Romanian delegations will also now undergo a further PCR test.
39 countries are participating in Eurovision Song Contest 2021. With Poland, Iceland, Malta and Romania unable to attend the turquoise carpet, and Australia unable to send an in-person delegation to Rotterdam, only 34 countries’ delegations will be in attendance for the Opening Ceremony. As an extra safety measure all delegations still attending the Carpet will now arrive individually in private transport.