As we wait for the bidding process for Eurovision 2022 to get fully underway, many Italian outlets are already speculating which city will end up hosting. Two weeks ago we published an article outlining the main contenders, along with the availability of their potential venues. With Turin in the lead by our estimations, local politicians are now pushing for the city to host.
Last week, two politicians submitted motions for debate in Turin’s City Council concerning Eurovision 2022. The first was presented by Andrea Russi and Serena Imbesi, who spoke about the potential benefits of tourism for the city. According to Eurofestival News, the 37% increase in tourism that Eurovision 2018 brought to Lisbon was cited as evidence. The second motion focused on the opportunity to relaunch the entertainment and hospitality sectors in the city.
In response, Alberto Sacco, Councillor for Tourism and Commerce, said the following:
Turin has the credentials to successfully host the event, but we must wait to know the requests that the organizers will make to Rai. After having “conquered” a Ryanair air base and the ATP Finals – concluded the commissioner – we hope to get another victory.
Alberto Sacco, Councillor for Tourism and Commerce
Both motions have progressed to the next stage of debate in the City Council, in which the motions will be voted on.
Although local politicians cannot directly sway the EBU and Rai’s ultimate decision, the support of local politicians will likely ensure that the city’s bid is as strong as possible and less likely to be withdrawn as the bidding process continues. With the support of local politicians being instrumental in securing additional funds for Rotterdam to weather the pandemic, this support may also strengthen Turin’s bid.
Twelve cities showing interest
Italian broadcaster Rai will be holding a bidding process to determine which city will host the Eurovision Song Contest 2022. The official bids have yet to be put forward but so far we’ve heard from the following cities.
- Bari
- Bologna
- Florence
- Milan
- Naples
- Pesaro
- San Remo
- Reggio Emilia
- Rimini
- Rome
- Turin
- Verona
Måneskin won the Eurovision Song Contest 2021 with “Zitti E Buoni”, taking us to Italy for the first time since 1991. We will report as the bidding process continues!
Would you like to see Turin host? Let us know! Be sure to stay updated by following @ESCXTRA on Twitter, @escxtra on Instagram and liking our Facebook page for the latest updates! Also, be sure to follow us on Spotify and YouTube to see our reactions to the news in the run up to the 2022 national final season!
