UK to host Eurovision 2023 instead of Ukraine as search for host city begins

The UK is set to host the Eurovision Song Contest next year on behalf of Ukraine, the BBC has confirmed.

In a statement, the broadcaster said: "It is a matter of great regret that our colleagues and friends in Ukraine are not able to host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest.

"Being asked to host the largest and most complex music competition in the world is a great privilege."

Organisers of the event decided that it could not be held in the winning country due to the ongoing conflict following Russia's invasion. Since the UK were runners up, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) opened talks with the BBC about where to hold the contest next year.

However, it's not yet known which city will host the glittering event but cities including Glasgow and Manchester have expressed an interest.

Eurovision officials have turned to the UK after Ukraine was ruled out from hosting duties due to 'safety fears' (REUTERS)

The EBU said in a statement: "Following the decision that, regrettably, next year’s event could not be held in Ukraine for safety and security reasons the EBU explored a number of options with the winning broadcaster. As a result of discussions, the BBC, as runner up in the 2022 Contest, was invited by the EBU to act as Host Broadcaster for the 67th Eurovision Song Contest.

“We’re exceptionally grateful that the BBC has accepted to stage the Eurovision Song Contest in the UK in 2023,” said Martin Österdahl, the Eurovision Song Contest’s Executive Supervisor. “The BBC has taken on hosting duties for other winning countries on four previous occasions. Continuing in this tradition of solidarity, we know that next year’s Contest will showcase the creativity and skill of one of Europe’s most experienced public broadcasters whilst ensuring this year’s winners, Ukraine, are celebrated and represented throughout the event.”

The UK had their best Eurovision in years in 2022, with Sam Ryder's Spaceman coming in second to Ukraine's Kalush Orchestra. Along with the Big 5, Ukraine will automatically qualify. Bids for host city will open this week.

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