Eurovision just gave Russia a huge middle finger for invading Ukraine
Russia faces yet another major point of alienation on the world stage. The famed song contest Eurovision has banned it from this year’s competition as punishment for the international incursion.“The decision reflects concern that, in light of the unprecedented crisis in Ukraine, the inclusion of a Russian entry in this year’s contest would bring the competition into disrepute,” the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) said in a statement.Related: Herschel Walker’s gay son just shared his thoughts on Ukraine and we’re all a little stupider nowThe announcement comes less than a day after the EBU said that it would allow Russia to compete in the contest, prompting a number of European nations to threaten to boycott Eurovision 2022 if it didn’t take a stand against Putin.Statement from @EBU_HQ regarding Russia's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2022.https://t.co/HmKJdqVE4J pic.twitter.com/tVH6yFxzbq— Eurovision Song Contest (@Eurovision) February 25, 2022First established in 1956, Eurovision has become a cultural touchstone among European nations, and a major gateway to fame for aspiring recording artists.
The contest has produced acts that would go on to become major recording artists, notably ABBA and Celine Dion. This year’s Eurovision will be held in Turin, Italy this May.Twitter erupted in celebration after learning the news that Eurovision had officially banned Russia.“Eurovision removed Russia from the competition,” one user wrote. “UEFA took the final match from Russia.
Germany sent 5,000 helmets to Ukraine. Russia’s job is very difficult!”“We have just informed Herr Hitler of his expulsion from Eurovision,” wrote @JosPastr.“Russia has been kicked out of Eurovision, the Pope has organized a day of fasting.
