Musicians representing Ukraine were selected Tuesday to advance to the finals of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.
Kalush Orchestra, performing on behalf of Ukraine, is heavily favored to win, according to Johnny Weir, who hosted the US coverage of the competition on the streaming service Peacock.
The group’s song is called Stefania.
The run-up to Eurovision featured controversial decisions determining whether musicians from Russia would be able to participate following the invasion in February.
The European Broadcasting Union, which organizes the contest, had initially decided it would allow a performer to represent Russia but changed course less than 24 hours later following public outcry.
“The decision reflects concern that, in light of the unprecedented crisis in Ukraine, the inclusion of a Russian entry in this year’s Contest would bring the competition into disrepute,” a statement released at the time said in part.
Ukraine and others had petitioned the European Broadcasting Union to bar Russia from participating.
Ten countries in all advanced from the competition’s first semi-final on Tuesday.
The Grand Final will take place Saturday, following the second of two semifinals, which is set to happen Thursday in Turin, Italy.
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