The Eurovision Song Contest 2024 is just hours away from kicking off as thousands of pop fans have descended on the Swedish city of Malmo.
Following two explosive semi-finals, the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) finally knows which 26 countries will be represented at this year's extravaganza.
As usual, 'The Big Five' of the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Germany and Italy automatically qualified for the grand finale along with hosts Sweden.
The other 20 countries were voted for earlier this week over two semis, with the likes of Ireland's controversial act Bambie Thug sailing through along with Israel's Eden Golan - who has been the subject of security worries amid pro-Palestine protests in the city.
The bookies have already identified their favourites with Croatia and Switzerland among the frontrunners after they secured their spots in the finale while the UK's representative Olly Alexander is priced as a rank outsider to bag victory.
But at what point in the running order will UK-based fans be able to watch Alexander perform? The full running order for this year's contest is as follows:
- Sweden
- Ukraine
- Germany
- Luxembourg
- Netherlands
- Israel
- Lithuania
- Spain
- Estonia
- Ireland
- Latvia
- Greece
We have our 26 Grand Finalists. And now we have the running order they'll perform in on Saturday night. #Eurovision2024 pic.twitter.com/kvHRfDHg9U
— Eurovision Song Contest (@Eurovision) May 10, 2024
13. United Kingdom
14. Norway
15. Italy
16. Serbia
17. Finland
18. Portugal
19. Armenia
20. Cyprus
21. Switzerland
22. Slovenia
23. Croatia
24. Georgia
25. France
26. Austria
The official Eurovision X account confirmed the running order on Friday morning, and it's safe to say it sparked quite a mixed reaction from fans online.
Reacting to the post, one X user hit back: "This is a sign that the producers want a (Croatia) win at all costs."
While a Spanish fan raged: "Spain in eighth position after the stadium fell during their performance yesterday? We Spaniards are already tired of the continuous contempt of the EBU despite being one of the countries that contributes the most money and audiences.
"Maybe it is necessary to imitate Italy and go away for a few years so that you begin to appreciate us a little."
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Olly Alexander was elated when unveiled as this year's Eurovision act on Strictly last year BBCElsewhere, another fan was outraged by Ukraine being so high up the running order: "Should be SO ASHAMED of putting Ukraine 2. Shameful and all on purpose. The most beautiful, powerful, moving and professional performance of the year. 🇺🇦 Glory to Ukraine! GO GIRLS GO! Emotions all around."
And a fourth hit out: "That’s the worst running order I’ve seen in my life. My winners Ukraine in the death slot is a crime whilst Croatia & Switzerland are performing alongside each other to cancel the other one out which may allow the dark horse Ireland to deliver a shock crowning of the witch #ESC24."
Meanwhile, a fifth claimed: "It’s clear they want Croatia, France or Switzerland to win and prevent a win for Ukraine, Israel or Netherlands. But I think it will be different." (sic)
Coverage of the Eurovision Song Contest in UK begins at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer with Graham Norton providing the commentary.
