Eurovision says Tel Aviv will host 2019 song contest

The Eurovision Song Contest has announced that next year’s competition will be held in Tel Aviv.

Today’s announcement clears up some of the controversy surrounding Israel’s hosting of the 2019 competition. The government initially insisted on holding the popular event in Jerusalem. But following a backlash over the US recognition of Jerusalem as its capital and a subsequent fear of boycotts it dropped the demand. Israeli ultra-Orthodox leaders also demanded that the contest rehearsals not be held on the Sabbath, against Eurovison regulations that bar any type of religious restrictions.

The Eurovision says it chose Tel Aviv, Israel’s cultural and commercial capital, because of its “creative and compelling bid.”

Israel won the Eurovision this year with a flashy pop tune called “Toy” by the charismatic, previously unknown singer Netta Barzilai, who dazzled viewers with her feminist lyrics, unconventional appearance and signature chicken dance. Her victory earned Israel the right to host next year’s contest.

— AP