Eurovision accused of ‘encouraging manipulation’ after Israel’s near-win
Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent
Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.
Eurovision broadcasters call for probe after Israeli singer’s near-win
- Eurovision is facing accusations of encouraging "manipulation" through its public voting system after Israeli singer Yuval Raphael nearly won the competition.
- Spain and Belgium's public broadcasters have lodged complaints with the European Broadcasting Union, demanding an investigation into the televoting system, which allows up to 20 votes per person.
- The complaints stem from Israel winning the public vote by a significant margin, despite being overlooked by both countries' juries. Raphael came second in the competition, runner-up to Austria’s JJ.
- The EBU said that the voting process is rigorously checked and verified, but takes the concerns seriously.
- This controversy follows protests surrounding Israel's participation, including one during the final where paint was thrown. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called for Israel to be banned from future contests.