Eurovision Song Contest cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic

·

The 2020 Eurovision Song Contest has been cancelled for the first time in the event’s 64-year history due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Due to be held in Rotterdam on May 16, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) announced in a statement on Twitter that it feels ‘deep regret’ about the cancellation of the event.

“Over the past few weeks we have explored many alternative options to allow the Eurovision Song Contest to go ahead,” the EBU wrote.

“However, the uncertainty created by the spread of COVID-19 throughout Europe, and the restrictions put in place by the governments of the participating broadcasters and the Dutch authorities, means the EBU has taken the difficult decision that it is impossible to continue with the live event as planned.”

The executive supervisor of the contest, Jon Ola Sand, added in a video on Twitter that the event would return “stronger than ever.”

Stefania Liberakakis was set to represent Greece this year at the Eurovision Song Contest.

“We regret this situation very much but I can promise you, the Eurovision Song Contest will come back stronger than ever,” he said.

Greece was set to be represented by singer-songwriter Stefania Liberakakis with her song “SUPERG!RL,” and at this stage, it is not clear whether she will be asked to compete in next year’s competition.

Eurovision is the latest high-profile entertainment music event to be affected by the coronavirus outbreak, with Glastonbury also cancelled on the same day, and Coachella postponed until October.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

The Greek passport (for Aussies) debacle: Part One

For quite a while now, I've been hearing complaints from Greek Australians about long delays in obtaining a Greek passport.

Harry Mavrolefteros’ First Education wins ‘Business of the Decade’ at National Awards

First Education, founded by Harry Mavrolefteros, was awarded 'Business of the Decade' at the 2025 Australian Small Business Champion Awards.

Little Legs Foundation sets monopoly World Record in memory of Alegra Vasiliou

The Little Legs Foundation officially set a new Guinness World Record for the most people playing Monopoly in a single venue.

Hellenic Medical Society of Australia’s Careers Day returns to inspire students

The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia invite all year 9-12 students to attend the HMSA ‘Pathways to Success’ Careers Day.

Melbourne man charged for impersonating police officer and assaulting families

Franesko Vamvakaris appeared in Ringwood Magistrates Court on Monday, facing charges of impersonating a police officer and unlawful assault.

You May Also Like

AHEPA NSW holds musical tribute for 50th anniversary of Cyprus invasion 

The commemoration event for the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, organised by AHEPA NSW, was a great success.

Remembering resistance fighter, Lela Karagianni, who was murdered by the Nazis

The actions of resistance fighter, Lela Karagianni, led to her untimely death by firing squad on September 8, 1944.

Trianon Cake Shop: ‘We just wanted to do something for the community, to relieve our customers of all this stress’

Trianon Cake Shop in Earlwood is adjusting to coronavirus restrictions as Easter approaches, offering flour, sugar and rice to its loyal customers.