Joost Klein, a contestant representing the Netherlands, has been disqualified from Saturday’s Eurovision Song Contest final following a complaint from a member of the production crew, according to organisers. This development adds to the challenges faced by host country Sweden as it grapples with anti-Israel protests coinciding with the event.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) had announced on Friday that it was investigating an incident involving Klein, 26, whose song “Europapa” had garnered significant attention and made him one of the favourites in the competition.
The 68th edition of Eurovision, known for its blend of catchy tunes and playful performances, is unfolding against a backdrop of protests in the host city of Malmo, particularly over Israel’s participation due to recent events in Gaza.
Earlier on Saturday, Swedish police reported questioning a man who allegedly threatened a Eurovision employee inside Malmo Arena following the competition’s second semi-final on Thursday. Though the individual was not detained, the matter has been referred to a prosecutor.
In a statement, the EBU declared that, while the legal process unfolds, it would be inappropriate for Klein to continue participating in the contest.
Klein’s representatives and Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS expressed shock and deemed the decision disproportionate. Eurovision expert Paul Jordan noted the unprecedented nature of an artist being expelled on the eve of the final, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the situation.
Notably, the incident does not involve the Israeli delegation, clarified AVROTROS Eurovision commentator Cornald Maas, who described the situation as challenging for Klein and his team.
Despite the controversy, bookmakers continue to speculate on potential winners, with Croatia’s Baby Lasagna and Israel’s Eden Golan among the frontrunners.
