It is possible that the microstate of Monaco will be returning to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2023? There is reason to believe so!
Putting money where the Contest is
In an article posted by L’Observateur de Monaco, the Monégasque government has managed to allocate €100,000 towards participation in the Contest, with the government co-operating with French commercial broadcaster TF1, due to TF1 owning Monégasque broadcaster TMC. The publication of the country’s state budget for 2022 confirmed the designation.
If this is true, Monaco would aim to return to the competition in time for the 2023 Contest, alongside fellow micronation Andorra that had signalled it may return to the competition in a similar timeframe. This would also be the first Monégasque participation in Eurovision in over 17 years.
Micro-success?
A key reasoning for Monaco’s withdrawal from the Contest has been the lack of success of smaller countries and the increase in so-called “geopolitical voting”. However, the recent success of San Marino at the Contest, as well as the reform of the system to combat voting blocs may be a driving factor in the decision to return.
It should be noted that Monaco has a history of stifled returns to the Eurovision Song Contest. Following their withdrawal in 2006, there were negotiations to get Monaco to return to the competition in 2009. These negotiations eventually fell through and a return did not materialise.
Whether the country follows through and confirms participation in 2023 remains to be seen. However, in the meantime, we can only speculate and hope that Monaco rejoins the Eurovision family.
Monaco’s history in Eurovision
Monaco was one of the first participants in the Eurovision Song Contest, making their debut in 1959. The first Monégasque song to take part was Jacques Pills’ “Mon ami Pierrot”. Despite finishing in last place, with one point, Monaco took part in every edition until 1979. Monaco was able to win the Contest once in 1971, with Severine’s “Un banc, un arbre, une rue”. However, due to the country’s small size, Monaco did not have the capacity to host the show, instead being held in Edinburgh.
Following their withdrawal in 1980, Monaco returned to the Contest in 2004, where they failed to qualify for the final in three consecutive occasions. Their most recent entry was in 2006, with Sevérine Ferrer’s “La Coco-Dance”. At the close of voting, Monaco finished in 21st place in a field of 23 with 14 points.
What do you make of this news? Do you think Monaco will return? Who would you like to see represent Monaco if they were to make another appearance at the Contest? As always, please do let us know what you think by commenting below or getting involved on social media. Be sure as well to follow ‘That Eurovision Site’ on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more information about the potential Monégasque participation.
News Source: L’Observateur de Monaco
Photo Credit: Expedia
Nahhh…its too crowded and noisy. Just reduce the number of countries to 25 maximum, eliminate the semi finals, and reintroduce the 1 night show, like it was before 2004. And bring back the 1 year wait for those with poor results. Only the first 15 best results can qualify for the next year. Ebu can combine the ex Yugoslav states into 1 entry, Like it was before 1992. No need each of them to send separately songs. They are all boring, and annoying to watch and listen. The contest became too crowed, noisy and lousy.