The build-up to Saturday's Eurovision grand final has been marked by chaos, including the disqualification of the Dutch entry, a withdrawal from rehearsals, and a rule-breaking on-stage speech calling for peace. Two former contestants have also pulled out of announcing jury scores for their countries.
Thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters marched in Malmö, Sweden, where the contest is held, chanting 'Eurovision, united by genocide' in opposition to Israel's participation amid the Gaza conflict. Eurovision, which maintains a non-political stance, has resisted calls to exclude Israel but demanded that performer Eden Golan change her song lyrics to remove references to the 7 October attack.
During the final dress rehearsal, French contestant Slimane broke protocol by interrupting his song to urge peace, potentially violating Eurovision's rules against political statements. The EBU has been contacted regarding possible sanctions.
Irish contestant Bambie Thug withdrew from the dress rehearsal after complaining about comments made by Israeli broadcaster KAN during their semi-final performance. The EBU confirmed it had spoken to KAN about respecting all artists. Bambie Thug said they were awaiting action from the EBU and hoped to perform in the final.
The Dutch contestant Joost Klein was disqualified after a backstage incident involving an allegation of intimidation against a female production crew member. Swedish police interviewed Klein for making 'unlawful threats', and Eurovision organisers deemed it inappropriate for him to continue while the legal process proceeds.
