As the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest 2022, Ukraine should actually host the next ESC. Due to the war in the country, the runner-up, Great Britain, has taken over and will host ESC 2023. This Tuesday, the BBC announced which two cities are in the running to host next May.

Glasgow and Liverpool edged out Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield. These seven cities were previously shortlisted. According to the BBC, the two cities that have riverside arenas had the "strongest overall offering". The criteria for the decision included the city's capacities, the availability of resources and general experience in hosting large events. A final decision will be made "within the next few weeks," the broadcaster said.

A total of 20 cities had expressed an interest in hosting the ESC in Great Britain. The country has hosted the ESC eight times - most recently 25 years ago. It took place four times in London and in Edinburgh, Brighton, Harrogate and Birmingham. British musician Sam Ryder (33) took second place this year. The Ukrainian band Kalush Orchestra, on the other hand, triumphed at the ESC in Turin. The BBC had announced that the 2023 competition will be a "true reflection of Ukrainian culture while showcasing the diversity of British music and creativity".