Following the announcement that Ukraine has been ruled out as the host for next year’s Eurovision Song Contest due to the war, despite their epic win in this year’s event, the UK has stepped forward to take its place (after coming in an unbelievable second ranking). And naturally, where there’s potential, there’s Leeds – primed and ready to make sure it gets a shot at first place.
A number of cities in the UK have made bids to host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest, including the likes of Newcastle, Leeds, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Brighton, Bristol and Belfast. However, today (August 12) the shortlist of who will have the honour has been revealed.
From 20 cities the list has been narrowed down to seven cities, which include Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield. All cities which have the capability, capacity and experience to host such a big musical event, as well as the passion, were said to be the ones who made the cut.
Introducing the Sensational Seven! 🤩
One of these cities will host #Eurovision 2023!
🧑💻 Find out more right here: https://t.co/xQJO6meK1W pic.twitter.com/wVsmy3cDUh
— Eurovision Song Contest (@Eurovision) August 12, 2022
The Host City selection process is a two-stage process and these seven cities will now go through to the second and final stage, where they will be asked to develop their bids in more detail. The Host City for the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 will be decided by the BBC in conjunction with the EBU, and the successful city will be revealed some time in the autumn this year.
The final decision on the winning Host City will be determined by which city or region scores highest against an agreed evaluation criteria, assessed by the BBC. The criteria includes:
- having a suitable venue and sufficient space to deliver the requirements of the Song Contest
- the commitment that can be made by a city or region to hosting the event, including the financial contribution
- the strength of the cultural offer which includes off screen local and regional activity as well as showcasing Ukrainian culture and music
- alignment with the BBC’s strategic priorities as a public service broadcaster, such as providing value to all audiences and supporting the creative economy in the UK.
The Eurovision has already been hosted in the UK eight times in cities such as London, Edinburgh, Brighton, Harrogate and Birmingham, so it’s time Leeds had a go!