Eurovision as it happened: results announced as winner confirmed
and live on Freeview channel 276
The Eurovision final in Liverpool has begun - with last year's winning act returning Kalush Orchestra to perform Stefania one more time.
The voting has closed. The lines were open during the interval which saw Eurovision performers from the past return.
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Hide AdThe full line-up of acts competing to lift the iconic glass microphone on Saturday (13 May) night has now been confirmed after the second semi-final. Albania, Estonia, Belgium, Austria, Lithuania, Armenia, Slovenia, Poland, Australia and Cyprus were it through after winning over the public on Thursday (11 May).
It comes as President Zelensky was blocked from addressing the Eurovision Song Contest final over fears it could politicise the event. The Ukrainian leader wanted to make an unexpected video appearance in Liverpool and it was expected he would implore the event’s global audience of millions to continue backing his country in its fight to repel its Russian invaders.
But the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), an alliance of 112 member organisations which organises the annual contest along with the host broadcaster, which this year is the BBC, has refused. The EBU’s management team said Zelensky had “laudable intentions” but that “regrettably” his request was against the rules. Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) will strike on Saturday – the day of the Eurovision Song Contest final in Liverpool. Passengers are being urged to check before they travel.
Follow the latest updates, reaction and memes from the NationalWorld team in our Eurovision final live blog below.
Live updates from Eurovision in Liverpool
Key Events
It will begin with flag parade
All 26 competing nations will bring out their flags to kick start the night
What is the running order?
Wondering when to expect Mae Muller - or when favourites Sweden will perform?
Luxembourg wants to make Eurovision come back
The former five-times winners of the song contest have not competed in Eurovision since 1993 - but they are planning to return for 2024.
Are you excited for Luxembourg's return? Let us know!
Austria are first performers of the night
Kicking off the night with the bizarre Edgar Allan Poe themed song is Austrian duo Teya and Salena.
But who is Edgar Allan Poe? Find out more in our deep dive!
Portugal up next!
Mimicat is performing in the cursed second spot - a position from which no act has ever won Eurovision.
Good luck!
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