The Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, Martin Green, has dismissed speculation that the contest is facing financial strain, insisting that the event remains on solid footing despite recent questions over costs, broadcaster commitments, and the wider economic climate.
Speaking to Variety, Green stated that Eurovision is “not in financial trouble”, pushing back against rumours that the contest’s scale or sustainability may be under pressure. His comments come as the European Broadcasting Union continues preparations for the 2027 contest in Bulgaria.
Green emphasised that the contest’s financial model, built on contributions from participating broadcasters, host broadcaster investment, and commercial partnerships, remains stable.
Martin Green told Variety:
“Let me dispel those [rumors]. I’ll use the technical term first, which is: it’s bollocks. Eurovision has a really robust model and it has over the 70 years weathered what the world tried to throw at it. So we’ll be around for many, many, many, many, many years to come. I understand why it’s an inevitable question, but no, Canada have been talking for a while about joining the EBU, knowing that that gave them a right to [join Eurovision].
“We had 35 countries in Eurovision last year, I expect there to be a few more next year. As everyone can see it makes for a fantastic show, so our doors remain open. And again, the purpose of Eurovision is to bring the world together, and we’re delighted to see Canada joining us.”
The remarks arrive at a time when several broadcasters across Europe have faced budget cuts, prompting questions from fans and media about whether Eurovision’s rising production costs could become a challenge. Green rejected this narrative, stressing that the contest’s financial planning is robust.
The EBU has not issued a separate statement on the matter, but Green’s comments represent the organisation’s clearest public pushback yet against claims of financial instability.
Eurovision 2027
Bulgaria was the winner of the 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna. The song that Dara performed in Vienna was called “Bangaranga”. It was written and composed by Anne Judith Wik, Cristian Tarcea, Darina Yotova (Dara), Dimitris Kontopoulos.
The result brings Bulgaria its first victory in the Eurovision Song Contest. DARA is also the first artist since Salvador Sobral in 2017 to win both the public and jury votes. Prior to this, the country’s best result was second place, achieved by Kristian Kostov in 2017. Bulgaria emerged as a dark horse winner, that climbed rapidly in the betting odds after the second rehearsal.
Source: Variety
