The ESC Reference Group were discussing a new proposal of the format of the ESC, which will be implemented already in 2008 (and not in 2009 as announced earlier). The main facets of the change include the introduction of two Semi-Finals and the participation of all countries at a Semi-Final. The only exception is the Big 4 and the hosting country. This means that the result from the 2007 ESC in Helsinki (except for the winner) will be of absolutely no importance in ESC 2008 in Belgrade.
For example, as Russia finished second, and observing the old rules, they could have gone directly to the Final. This year, they will have to compete during a Semi-Final and only then possibly go to the Final. None of the countries which finished in the top ten in Helsinki will have a reserved position at the Final.
However, the final decision on the new format is not set in stone... Only at the end of September the official result will be announced to the participating broadcasters.
This is yet another attempt on the part of the EBU to keep the audiences in front of the TV screen for the ESC and I hope they will manage to do so by introducing this changes. A change is definitely needed, and soon...
Eurovision 2009 » ESC
New Format for 2008 ESC
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Posted 1 year ago #
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