Many Eurofans were disappointed yesterday when the list of the 37 countries set to participate in Eurovision 2024 was announced. This is because several countries were missing from the list, including Bulgaria, Montenegro, and Romania. But one country’s absence in particular stung a little — that of North Macedonia.

There had been great speculation that the Balkan nation would return, particularly after a leak of broadcaster MRT’s budget showed money set aside for Eurovision, but regardless, North Macedonia was not on the final list of participating countries for Malmö.

In a statement from MRT, there was some good news at least:

This decision is in the best interest of the citizens, taking into account that next year, MRT, with all its capacities, will focus on celebrating the great jubilee of 80 years of Macedonian Radio and 60 years of Macedonian Television. The activities to mark the great jubilee will take place throughout the year 2024. MRT will broadcast Eurovision; both Semi Final evenings and the Grand Final on its services.

So perhaps this is less a goodbye from the Eurovision family, and more a ‘see you soon.’ Only time will tell.

North Macedonia last took part at Eurovision in Turin in 2022. That year, Andrea represented her country with Circles, just barely missing a spot in the Grand Final, finishing 11th in her Semi Final.