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Contest Structure

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This document delineates the established structural framework and the requisite qualification protocols governing the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC), as administered under the auspices of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). The Contest is meticulously organized to ensure a comprehensive and equitable competition amongst participating broadcasters.

You can find the full regulations on the EBU website.

THIS IS NOT AN OFFICIAL DOCUMENT!

1. Overall Format of the Contest​

The Eurovision Song Contest is traditionally comprised of three distinct live televised spectacles, typically conducted annually in May within the territory of the Host Broadcaster.

  • Semi-Finals: The Contest formally commences with two Semi-Finals, conventionally aired on a Tuesday and a Thursday evening, respectively. These preliminary rounds serve as a qualification mechanism for the majority of participating countries.
  • Grand Final: The culmination of the Contest is the Grand Final, a singular event broadcast on a Saturday evening. This final show features the ultimately qualified entries vying for the esteemed title of Eurovision Song Contest winner.
  • Interval Acts: During the designated audience voting windows and the requisite periods for result tabulation, interval acts are produced by the Host Broadcaster.
  • Green Room: Following the announcement of results, contestants who have entered the ESC are typically observed from a designated "Green Room" area.

2. Qualification for the Grand Final​

Accession to the Grand Final is determined through a structured qualification process, which differentiates between automatically qualified entities and those requiring progression through the Semi-Finals.

  • Automatic Qualifiers: A select cohort of participants is granted automatic qualification to the Grand Final, thereby circumventing the requirement to compete in the Semi-Finals. This cohort comprises:
    • The "Big Five" Nations: This designation refers to the broadcasting organizations representing France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Their automatic qualification status is conferred due to their substantial financial contributions to the European Broadcasting Union, which are instrumental in the Contest's perpetuation.
    • The Host Country: The broadcasting organization of the nation that emerged victorious in the preceding year's Contest, and consequently serves as the Host Broadcaster for the current edition, is also afforded automatic entry into the Grand Final.
  • Semi-Final Qualification: All other participating broadcasters, not falling under the purview of automatic qualification, are allocated to one of the two Semi-Finals. From each Semi-Final, the ten highest-scoring entries, as determined exclusively by the public televote, shall advance to the Grand Final.

3. Allocation and Running Order​

The assignment of countries to specific Semi-Finals and the determination of the performance order within the shows are conducted through formalized procedures.

  • Semi-Final Allocation Draw: The distribution of countries into the two Semi-Finals is determined by means of a draw, typically conducted in January preceding the Contest. This process also determines which of the "Big Five" and Host Country will be permitted to vote in which Semi-Final.
  • Running Order: The precise sequence in which acts perform within each Semi-Final and the Grand Final is determined by the Contest producers, subject to approval by the EBU Executive Supervisor, to ensure optimal show flow and fairness.

4. Event Weeks and Rehearsals​

The televised shows represent the culmination of an intensive period of preparation and activity within the Host City.

  • Rehearsals: All participants undertake individual stage rehearsals, typically commencing up to two weeks prior to the Grand Final. Each act usually rehearses twice for each show in which it is scheduled to perform.
  • Dress Rehearsals: Each live show is preceded by dress rehearsals, some of which are open to the public for ticketed attendance.
  • Ancillary Events: The Host City frequently organizes a "Eurovision Village" and other events, such as a Welcome Reception and "Turquoise Carpet" Ceremony, to engage both local populace and visitors, and to provide additional platforms for participants.