The national broadcaster for Luxembourg, RTL, has confirmed that the country will not be returning to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2023.
Eurovision not on the agenda in Luxembourg
Speaking to ESC Today, RTL confirmed that the country in the West of Europe would not be participating in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023. When asked for reasoning, the broadcaster said it is focusing more on their news programming. As a result, music and cultural shows – including Eurovision – are not a priority for the broadcaster. In addition, participation in the Contest would put an added “financial strain” on RTL, which is also a factor in their decision not to take part.
Luxembourg now joins Andorra in formally confirming their non-participation at the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest. The Contest will be held in the UK, following the EBU’s decision to move the Contest from winning country Ukraine as a result of the ongoing war with Russia.
Luxembourg’s Eurovision history
Luxembourg first made its debut in the first edition of the Contest in 1956, with their first entries being “Ne crois pas” and “Les amants de minuit”, both performed by Michรจle Arnaud. Since the first Contest, Luxembourg has competed a total of 37 times. Their best result was finishing in 1st place five times – in 1961, 1965, 1972, 1973 and 1983 respectively.
Luxembourg last took part in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1993, when Modern Times represented the nation with the song “Donne-moi une chance”. At the close of voting, Luxembourg finished 20th in a field of 25 with 11 points. Following this participation, Luxembourg withdrew from the Contest and has not returned since.
What do you make of the news from Luxembourg? Do you think the country will ever return to the Contest in the future? What do you think could bring the country back? As always, let us know what you think by commenting below. Also, be sure to follow “That Eurovision Site” on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter as we prepare for Eurovision 2023!
News Source: RTL / ESCToday
Photo Credit: That Eurovision Site
