The Eurovision Song Contest is back for its 70th edition, drawing audiences from over 70 countries. A total of 95,000 tickets have been sold, with 35 nations set to compete for the coveted title.
The contest remains Europe's largest music competition, and the excitement in Vienna's Stadthalle begins well before the main event, with a host of activities and performances taking place throughout the week.
A dedicated RTL team is reporting live from Vienna, providing regular updates across radio, television, social media, and of course RTL Today.
Although 35 countries are participating in this year's contest, only 25 will make it through to Saturday's grand final. Automatic qualification is granted to the so-called 'Big Four' – Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, and France.
While Spain is usually guaranteed a spot in the final, it has opted not to participate this year. As last year's winner, Austria also advances directly to the final as the host country.
Both the semi-finals and the grand final will be hosted by Victoria Swarovski, Michael Ostrowski, and Emily Busvine. For Luxembourg's English-speaking audience, Meredith Moss and Melissa Dalton from RTL Today Radio will comment the broadcast of the second semi-final – where Eva Marija will perform in fourth place – as well as the grand final on Saturday.
In case you're unable to tune in but don't want to miss any of the action, then tune into RTL Today's extensive ticker coverage of the second semi-final and the final.
The first semi-final will be streamed on RTL Today on Tuesday from 9pm onwards. Here's the running order:
The second semi-final will also be streamed on RTL Today, including English commentary and ticker coverage, on Thursday from 9pm onwards. Here's the running order:
