Eurovision performers’ countries to remain secret until after voting

Paul McRingo | Hurling Correspondent

It’s Eurovision Song Contest week and a game-changing rule has been introduced this year in an attempt to end the farcical voting system where countries give 12 points to their friendly neighbours no matter how shite the song is.

The home nation of each performer will remain a secret until after all voting has been completed.

More and more countries sing their songs in English every year so identifying the nationality of each performer might not be as easy as some people think.

RTE are boycotting the contest this year due to Israel’s inclusion, although nobody in Ireland will notice as Irish fans of the show watch it on BBC1 every year for Graham Norton’s hilarious commentary.

Eurovision fans are split on the new rule. Purists have welcomed the mystery. “At last, we can judge each act on artistic merit.” said one viewer.

Others are less convinced. “Half the fun is shouting ‘they always vote for each other!’” complained another fan. “Now we actually have to listen to those awful f**king songs.”

Whatever side of the fence you’re on, at least we won’t be watching Ireland not qualifying for the final yet again this year which can only be a good thing. Yay Ireland.