With the news that the UK will host the Eurovision Song Contest in 2023, there's now a lot of excitement about where the event will be held. After the European Broadcasting Union decision that it wouldn’t be possible for next year’s event to be held in Ukraine, the search will soon be on to find the host city.
The BBC has accepted the EBU’s invitation to host the 67th Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of the Ukrainian broadcaster, UA: PBC. will create and deliver a unique Eurovision Song Contest that reflects Ukraine’s victory in Turin in May 2022 as well as showcasing the UK’s vibrant music scene. The show will celebrate the culture and heritage of Ukraine as the winners of the 2022 Contest, alongside the Eurovision’s proud tradition of celebrating diversity through music
Read more: 17 reasons why Wales should definitely host Eurovision
But how will the host city and venue will be decided upon?
There's lots still to work out but we do know there will be a bidding process to select the Host City and it will begin this week. The BBC will manage it alongside the EBU. More information will be issued this week and the bidding process to be complete by the autumn. Also, any city authority wanting to receive an information pack should email esc.hostcity@bbc.co.uk.
As for Wales putting forward a bid, we know that the Welsh Government will be looking at a bid. A spokesman confirmed it will however take a lot of work. "We remain open to discussions around bringing exciting major events to Wales. As ever, any discussion would involve full engagement with partners, assessment of likely costs and benefits and consideration of a detailed technical specification." You can read more on that here. We also know that only certain size and capacity venues would be considered. In June, the Welsh Government's deputy minister for culture, Dawn Bowden, told MSs: "We recognise that Wales's successful track record in hosting high-profile events in Cardiff at the Principality Stadium, which we understand would be the only venue in Wales capable of meeting the specifications for the event, places it in contention for providing a home for the 2023 edition of Eurovision."
Kate Phillips, Director Unscripted BBC, said: "We are honoured that we have been asked to take on hosting duties for the 67th Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of Ukraine. Clearly the set of circumstances our colleagues find themselves in is not what we wanted but we will work with UA: PBC and the other participating broadcasters to deliver a special event that has glorious Ukraine at its heart."
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