Eurovision: Malta’s Unlikely Football Season

Imagine this: it’s a Saturday night in Malta, and the streets of Msida are buzzing. But it’s not a football match that’s got everyone excited. Instead, they’re gathered around TV screens, cheering for a singer. Welcome to Eurovision season in Malta, where this song contest has become the island’s biggest ‘sporting’ event outside football.

From Zero to Hero

Malta’s love affair with Eurovision started in 1971, but it was a slow burn. Our first entry, ‘Maria Spiteri’, didn’t even make it to the final. But fast forward to 2002, when ‘I Will Believe’ by Ira Losco finished second. Suddenly, Malta was hooked. Since then, we’ve qualified for the final every year except two, and we’ve even won it twice – first with ‘Euphoria’ by Johnny Logan in 1988, and then with ‘Toy’ by Netta in 2018.

Eurovision Fever: Malta Style

Eurovision isn’t just about the contest itself. It’s a national event that brings Malta together. Bars and restaurants across the island host viewing parties. In Msida, the square outside the Mediterranean Conference Centre is a sea of red and white, with fans waving Maltese flags and singing along to our entry. Even the Prime Minister gets in on the act, hosting a party at Castille every year.

And it’s not just about supporting Malta. Eurovision is a chance for Maltese fans to show their love for international acts too. When Måneskin performed in Malta last year, the crowd was singing along to every word. It’s a testament to how much Eurovision has brought us together, not just as Maltese, but as Europeans too.

Malta’s Eurovision Success Story

Malta’s success in Eurovision is no fluke. Our national final, ‘Maltese Song for Europe’, is a rigorous process that attracts hundreds of entries every year. The final is a glitzy affair, broadcast live on TVM, with a panel of expert judges and public voting deciding the winner.

But it’s not just about the contest. Malta’s success is also down to our commitment to the event. The Malta Eurovision Song Contest is a major event in our cultural calendar, attracting international acts and boosting our tourism industry. In 2019, the event was estimated to have brought in €1.5 million to the local economy.

And it’s not just about the money. Eurovision has also given Malta a platform on the global stage. Our entries have included songs in Maltese, English, and even Italian. They’ve tackled issues like LGBTQ+ rights, mental health, and immigration. Through Eurovision, Malta’s voice is heard loud and clear.

So, the next time you’re out and about in Malta during Eurovision season, don’t be surprised to see the streets filled with flags and the TVs tuned to the same channel. It’s not just a song contest – it’s our biggest ‘sporting’ event outside football. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Eurovision is more than just a song contest. It’s a celebration of music, culture, and unity. And Malta is right at the heart of it.” – Glen Vella, Malta’s Eurovision 2011 representative