The BBC Reveals More Details: When and How Will a Host City Be Chosen?

Rylan Clark and Sam Ryder share a hug at Eurovision 2022. Image: EBU/Corinne Cumming

With the news officially confirmed that 2023’s Eurovision Song Contest will be held in the United Kingdom (on behalf of 2022 champions Ukraine), all eyes are now turned toward the British cities bidding to welcome the Contest next year. The competition to decide 2023’s host city is officially underway — but how will the BBC choose the victor?

In a new FAQ, the BBC has outlined details about how the host city will be decided, and when we can expect an announcement.

According to the BBC, each candidate city will enter a “two-stage process.” These cities must firstly satisfy the EBU’s criteria. They must possess a roofed venue with a capacity of over 10,000; a suitable location for a press centre, Eurovision Village and more; and excellent transport infrastructure. Furthermore, the BBC has added that they must meet “a set of minimum standards that demonstrate they have the capacity, capability and experience to host an event of this scale and complexity.” The complete longlist of competing cities will be revealed later this Summer.

After reviewing each application, the BBC will then shortlist cities for a second round.

The BBC outlines that the government of the United Kingdom may be consulted regarding the decision; however, ultimately, the choice will be made only by the BBC and the EBU.

After all of this deliberation, when can we expect to know the exact location of Eurovision 2023? According to the BBC, a final decision should be reached some time this Autumn, at which point an announcement will be made.

So far, Glasgow and Manchester have been fancied by fans as likely candidates. According to Bloomberg, Glasgow stands as the betting odds’ favourite to host, followed by Manchester, London, Birmingham, and Liverpool. Of these cities, Glasgow, Liverpool and Birmingham have confirmed that work is underway on their applications. The others, alongside many other cities (including Newcastle, Leeds, Brighton, and Belfast), have declared their interest.

Unfortunately, fans hoping for the first Welsh Eurovision will be left disappointed — this week, Cardiff decided to bow out of the race. Together with the Welsh government and the proposed venue (Cardiff’s Principality Stadium), it was decided that hosting the Contest would require the cancellation of too many previously scheduled events. These events include the European Wheelchair Rugby Championships, and an appearance by a “major international artist.” With these commitments already scheduled, there was no room for Eurovision 2023.

Which city are #YOU rooting for to host Eurovision 2023? Are you disappointed that Cardiff has left the race? Let us know here in the comments below, on our social media @ESCUnited, on our Discord, or on the forum!