"The Eurovision song contest will go on its first ever tour to celebrate its 70th anniversary, its organiser has said, as it reels from a boycott due to Israel's participation. Five countries have pulled out of the contest over Israel's war in Gaza, leaving 35 to participate in the world's biggest live televised music event the fewest since entry was expanded in 2004."
"Artists will perform their own Eurovision song contest entries plus cover versions of their favourite songs from the contest's 70-year history, the EBU added. Ten European cities including London and Paris will host the tour from 15 June to 2 July, after the contest finals in Vienna on 16 May. On Monday a draw determined that Israel would take part in the first semi-final, on 12 May, starting at 9pm local time."
"But it is concern over Israel's war in Gaza that has prompted the most intense criticism, with the Irish broadcaster RTE citing the appalling loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there as a reason for its non-participation. Alongside RTE, broadcasters from Spain, Iceland, the Netherlands and Slovenia said in December they were pulling out, while the 2024 winner Nemo returned their trophy in protest."
Eurovision will launch its first-ever 70th anniversary tour in June–July featuring iconic performers and 2026 artists performing entries and cover versions of favourite contest songs. Ten European cities will host the tour from 15 June to 2 July, after the finals in Vienna on 16 May. Five countries withdrew over Israel's participation and the Gaza war, leaving 35 entrants, the fewest since 2004. Broadcasters including RTE, Spain, Iceland, the Netherlands and Slovenia pulled out, and 2024 winner Nemo returned its trophy. Conchita Wurst announced she will not participate in future Eurovision events. Israeli broadcaster Kan welcomed keeping Israel in the contest and rejected allegations of political interference.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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