Moments ago, the EBU has confirmed on their official website that Armenia will no longer participate in the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest which is going to be taking place in Rotterdam. Their withdrawal comes due to the fact that the events that followed their confirmation have made it impossible to organize an entry and respect the deadlines.

A spokesperson in front of the Armenian national broadcaster stated:

After careful and detailed discussions, the Public Television Company of Armenia has decided to withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest 2021, considering the latest events, the shortness of production time as well as other objective reasons that make the proper participation of Armenia at ESC 2021 impossible.

The Executive Supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest, Mr. Martin Osterdahl said:

The EBU community is deeply sorry that AMPTV has decided to withdraw from participating in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. Armenia have a great record at the Eurovision Song Contest and always bring excitement and quality performances to the stage. We understand the reasons for their withdrawal and we will miss their hard working and professional delegation in Rotterdam. We very much hope to welcome Armenia back in 2022.

Athena Manoukian was set to represent Armenia in the 2020 Eurovision Song Contest, after winning Depi Evratesil with her song “Chains On You”.

Armenia’s withdrawal leaves 40 countries participating, which means we will have 17 songs in each semi final.