Newcastle could hold Eurovision 2023 after it successfully made the shortlist this morning.
The news was announced on the BBC Radio 2 Zoe Ball Breakfast Show – others cities making the shortlist were Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield.
Eurovision 2023 was due to take place in Ukraine following the country’s success in last year’s competition, however, due to the ongoing conflict with Russia, it was agreed that the United Kingdon, as the runner up, would host it on behalf of Ukraine.
Sadly, despite announcing a bid yesterday, Darlington did not make the shortlist for Eurovision 2023.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “So it wasn't to be. Unfortunately we didn’t get shortlisted to host Eurovision in Darlington.”
Read more: Darlington misses out on hosting Eurovision after shortlist announced for 2023
“As I always say, you’ve got to be in it to win it and given our bid cost a grand total of £0 we have made it clear that Teesside, Darlington, and Hartlepool stands ready to host global events.
“This won't be the last time we step up when called upon, and now we look forward to hosting another global event in the Rugby League World Cup later this year at the Riverside.
“The progress we are making and the positive noises we are creating are paying dividends. Five years ago we wouldn’t have even thought about bidding, but our area is on the up and opportunities like this will come round again.”
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After the Eurovision shortlist was announced, Kate Phillips, the BBC’s director of unscripted content, said: “We would like to thank all of the cities and regions that submitted bids to host next year’s Eurovision Song Contest. We have seven fantastic cities who we are taking through to the next round.
“Congratulations to Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield – it’s exciting to see such a breadth of bids going through from across the UK.
“We are committed to delivering a truly unique Song Contest that celebrates wonderful Ukraine and champions British music and creativity in all its diversity.”
Read next:
- Newcastle: Benfica's Goncalo Ramos is target for Magpies and PSG
- Eurovision 2023: Darlington misses out on hosting after shortlist announced
- Arriva pledges to improve Darlington bus services after being slated
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