May 1st 2024.
As the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest approaches, fans are gearing up for the excitement and drama that comes with the event. However, for those new to the competition, they may be wondering why certain countries automatically make it to the final every year. These five countries, known as the 'Big Five', are given a fast-track to the final without having to compete in the semi-finals.
This year, the contest will take place in Sweden and rehearsals are already underway. Fans are eagerly anticipating the performances of top contenders such as Switzerland's Nemo, Israel's Eden Golan, and the UK's own Olly Alexander. It's been 27 years since the UK has won Eurovision and Olly is hoping to change that. Fortunately for him, he's guaranteed a spot in the final.
But why do these five countries get an automatic place in the final? Well, they are known as the 'Big Five' because they are the countries that make the biggest financial contributions to the production of Eurovision. This event is organized by the European Broadcasting Union, and these countries play a crucial role in making it happen.
Interestingly, the 'Big Five' was originally the 'Big Four'. In 2000, the rule was introduced and the countries that automatically qualified were the UK, France, Germany, and Spain. It wasn't until 2011 that Italy joined and the group became known as the 'Big Five'. Italy had previously competed in the first-ever Eurovision contest in 1956, but withdrew without explanation in 1997. They finally returned in 2011 and became a part of the 'Big Five'.
So, what does this mean for the other countries competing in Eurovision? Well, the 'Big Five' and the host country, which is Sweden this year, automatically qualify for the final. This year, the semi-finals will see performances from not only the contestants, but also the 'Big Five' and Sweden. This is the first time this has happened, and it's sure to add an extra level of excitement to the competition.
In the first semi-final on Tuesday, May 7th, we'll see Olly Alexander performing the UK's entry, 'Dizzy'. Germany and Sweden will also perform in this semi-final, while France, Italy, and Spain will perform in the second semi-final on Thursday, May 9th. As usual, the 'Big Five' will not be competing for votes, but they do have the opportunity to cast a vote in one of the semi-finals.
As for the odds for the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, most bookmakers are currently favoring Switzerland to win. Nemo, the Swiss singer and rapper, has been given a 24% chance of winning by Eurovision World. Other top contenders include Croatia, Italy, Netherlands, Ukraine, and France. However, the UK's odds are not looking too promising, as they have drifted to 40/1.
Whether you're a die-hard Eurovision fan or new to the competition, the Grand Final on Saturday, May 11th is sure to be an entertaining and unforgettable event. Will one of the top contenders take home the trophy, or will there be a surprise winner? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below.
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