Europe and beyond are prepping for the annual escapist jazz-fest – the Eurovision Song Contest.
This year’s final will be held on May 14 in Turin, Italy, the country of the winning musical act of 2021.
Oddball acts, strange lyrics and bizarre dances are to be expected at this glittering event – but the favourite is not always the loudest.
As Europe has been under the spotlight already, with the Russia-Ukraine conflict and cost of living rises, the theme of peace is much more significant.
So who will take home the victory this year?
Who is the favourite to win the Eurovision Song Contest this year?
Odds are in favour of Kalush Orchestra, Ukraine’s entry for 2022, as the current favourite, according to Betfair.
Russia’s attack on Ukraine makes this choice a kind one, in line with the world’s impassioned response.
Members of the group were reported to have been helping in the war effort, with lead singer Oleh Psiuk volunteering to distribute medical supplies.
In April Kalush Orchestra performed in front of a QR code, urging fans to donate via the link.
Will the UK win the Eurovision?
According to Betfair odds, Britain could be up there with the top votes this year.
Sam Ryder, with his song Space Man, placed fourth of the bookmakers favourites to win.
Despite a miserable reputation, as British commentator Graham Norton will assure you, the UK contestant this year has a significant following already.
Sam Ryder is the most followed TikTok musician from the UK with more than 12 million followers and 100 million likes.
His entry song was co-written by Ryder, Grammy-winning artist Amy Wadge and Max Wolfgang.
Ryder said: “Having been a fan of Eurovision since I was a kid, I am so honoured to have been presented with the opportunity to sing at an event alongside some of Europe’s most talented creatives, performers and songwriters.
“I hope to sing my head off in a way the UK can be proud of, and to showcase a song I wrote with my friends last summer makes the whole experience even more special. See you in Turin, legends!”
The full odds can be found here.
