Eurovision: Malta’s Unlikely Football Season

Every May, as the Maltese football season winds down, an unlikely ‘sporting’ event takes centre stage. The streets of Paceville aren’t filled with cheering fans of Birkirkara or Hibernians, but with euphoric supporters of Sweden’s Måneskin or Italy’s Måneshkin. Welcome to Malta’s Eurovision fever.

From a One-Horse Town to a Eurovision Powerhouse

Malta’s Eurovision journey began in 1971, but it was in 1991 that the island nation truly entered the game. With the catchy ‘Could It Be’ by Georgina, Malta scored its first points, and a love affair began. Since then, Malta has become a powerhouse, qualifying for the final 14 times in the past 20 years.

Today, Eurovision is more than just a song contest. It’s a national event that unites Maltese people from all walks of life. From the moment the first semi-final kicks off, Malta’s living rooms, bars, and even the streets of Valletta transform into mini-stadia, filled with fans cheering for their favourites.

Malta’s Eurovision Strategy: Quality Over Quantity

Malta’s success in Eurovision can be attributed to its strategic approach. While other countries flood the contest with numerous entries, Malta focuses on quality. The Public Broadcasting Services (PBS) holds a rigorous national final, ‘Malta Eurovision Song Contest’, where the best of the best compete for the honour to represent Malta.

This strategy has paid off. Malta has scored high with songs like ‘Chameleon Love’ by Glen Vella (2011), ‘Tomorrow’ by Kurt Calleja (2012), and ‘Warrior’ by Ira Losco (2016). In 2021, Destiny Chukunyere’s ‘Je Me Casse’ brought Malta to the final, where it finished in 7th place.

Eurovision’s Economic Impact: A Boon for Local Businesses

Eurovision isn’t just about the music; it’s also big business. Every year, thousands of fans descend on the host city, pumping millions into the local economy. In 2019, when the contest was held in Tel Aviv, Israeli officials estimated that it brought in around $120 million.

Malta isn’t immune to this economic boost. When the contest was held in Lisbon in 2018, many Maltese fans made the trip, filling hotels, restaurants, and shops. Locally, businesses cash in too. From Eurovision-themed merchandise to special menus, the contest is a windfall for many.

But it’s not just about the money. Eurovision brings Malta into the global spotlight. It’s a chance for the island nation to showcase its culture, its people, and its unique story to a worldwide audience. And that, in itself, is priceless.

As the 2022 contest approaches, Malta is already buzzing. Fans are debating who should represent the island, and businesses are planning their Eurovision specials. So, as the football season winds down, get ready for Malta’s other ‘sporting’ event. It’s time for the island nation to take the Eurovision stage.