The European Broadcasting Union has responded to a petition calling on the EBU to alter the results of the 61st Eurovision Song Contest.
The petition had called on the organisers of the contest to declare Russia the winner of the contest after Sergey Lazarev topped the televote. In a statement the EBU said that:
The Eurovision Song Contest is a much loved competition now in its 61st year. There can only be one winner. We understand that the outcome of the Eurovision Song Contest will always create conversation and a difference of opinion. However in a competition where the results are decided based on a subjective appreciation of music, this will always be the case.
The winner of the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest was decided by music industry professionals and viewers at home, each with a 50 percent stake in the result. Ukraine’s Jamala won, thanks to broad support from both the juries as well as televoters. She did so with an outstanding performance of an emotional song, telling a personal story.
The result of the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest remains valid and was reached in accordance with the rules agreed by each participating broadcaster and artist and known to every dedicated fan.
Ukraine is, and will remain, the winner of the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest. We call upon those who signed this petition to accept the result, valid in accordance with the rules, and to continue a constructive dialogue about how to further strengthen and improve the Eurovision Song Contest as it enters its seventh decade.
Boo Hoo, they didn’t win.
Bravo to the organizers for sticking to their guns and not be intimidated.
There was never any doubt. Just jealousy. Congrats to Jamala and Ukraine
Russians are such poor losers. But they should be used to it.