The Semi-Final Allocation Draw for the 68th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest is set to take place at the end of January according toEurovision.tv‘s Frequently Asked Questions. The draw will determine the Semi-Final placement for the 31 participating countries, that will have to compete for a place in the Grand Final.

What is the Allocation Draw?

With too many countries to fit into a single Grand Final, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) conducts an Allocation Draw to divide the countries not prequalified for the Final into two Semi-Finals.

Countries are organized into pots based on their historical voting patterns, ensuring a diverse mix in each Semi-Final. This approach adds an element of unpredictability, dispersing nations that traditionally support each other.

In brief, the pots undergo careful crafting and approval by the Contest’s Executive Supervisor (Martin Österdahl) and the Chairman of the Reference Group (Bakel Walden, from Swiss SSR SRG). They will guarantee fairness and transparency in the process.

Furthermore, the draw not only determines the Semi-Final for the participating nations, but also dictates the Semi-Final in which the ‘Big Five’ (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom) and the Host Country (Sweden) will have their performances broadcast. The draw also determines the Semi-Final where these six countries will be voting.

Eurovision 2024

Loreen won the 67th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest for Sweden with “Tattoo”. She is the first female two-time winner of the competition, having previously won the 2012 contest with “Euphoria”.

Ultimately, this is Sweden’s seventh Eurovision win, following victories in 1974, 1984, 1991, 1999, 2012 and 2015. This makes Sweden the joint most successful country in Eurovision alongside Ireland. Loreen has also become the first woman and the second person overall to win Eurovision twice.

Malmö will host the contest for the third time, having previously hosted in 1992 and 2013.

Image Source: Eurovision World | Source: Eurovision.tv

Posted by:Sem Anne Van Dijk

Former News Editor