Today in Turin, the Semi Final Allocation Draw took place in Palazzo Madama. The Draw decided the fate of the 36 countries that are not pre-qualified to the Grand Final. We know now which countries will compete in which Semi Final. Additionally, the “Big 5” (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and United Kingdom) found out in which Semi Final they will vote.
Media outlet Eurofestival News was on hand at today’s event and spoke with Turin’s mayor, Stefano Lo Russo, who spoke about what it means to bring Eurovision to his city:
“The Eurovision Song Contest is a great showcase for the city, but it brings the message of Europe back to the center. A Europe that we want united, stronger, which can represent an element of stability for these very complicated times. […] There are just over a hundred days to go. There is certainly a massive organizational effort. We are equipped to make Turin beautiful, attractive and above, all to make our city and country look good.”
Like the previous two Contests, Covid-19 obviously also looms over Eurovision 2022. It is not yet clear what health protocols will need to be followed and how much things may change in Italy between now and May. Lo Russo added:
“It is a huge challenge to organize an international event at a time like this, but we are optimistic. We trust and hope that effects of the pandemic will diminish and we work flat out to make Eurovision a great event.”
Meanwhile, Turin will remain a busy place for the foreseeable future. Lo Russo announced that immediately after Eurovision, Turin will host a summit meeting of the European Union and the Council of Europe from 19th-20th May – days after the Eurovision Grand Final on 14th May.
A noticeable absence from today’s festivities was Eurovision’s Executive Supervisor was Martin Österdahl. While he was unable to attend today, he did provide a comment:
The Allocation Draw marks an important date on the Eurovision calendar. This year is more special because it is the first [Allocation Draw] since 2020. Now the excitement is really starting to grow, as we count the days until May where we will welcome all the participating artists in Turin and share “the Sound of Beauty” at the 66th Eurovision Song Contest.
If you missed today’s event, catch up at the link below. In addition to the planned events, we were treated to beautiful scenes of Turin and the artwork and graphics that will be used at the Contest in May.
