EUROVISION'S "BIG 5"

EUROVISION’s

BIG 5

These countries automatically are in the Grand Final and are known as “The Big 5”. In the Eurovision Song Contest's early years, the small number of entries meant all countries competed on the one night.

As others entered the Eurovision family, new rules were introduced to determine which countries could compete in the Grand Final. Other entries are required to qualify in the semi-finals, while 5 countries have a place in the Grand Final every year. In most cases, this is because of their larger financial contribution to the Contest.

Has a direct pass to the Grand Final been an advantage? This blog looks back on how the 5 countries have fared overall.

GERMANY

Last win: 2010

Best result since last win: #8 (2012)

Germany competed in the inaugural Eurovision Song Contest. Its first win was in 1982.

UNITED KINGDOM

Last win: 1997

Best result since last win: (#2) 1998

The United Kingdom first competed at Eurovision in its 2nd year 1957. No country has finished in the runner-up position as many times as the UK. It has had 5 wins: 1967, 1969 (tie), 1976, 1981 & 1997.

ITALY

Last win: 1990

Best result since last win: #2 (2011)

Italy's San Remo Festival inspired the Italian idea of bringing European nations together for an annual song contest. The country competed in the 1st year of the ESC. It has won twice: in 1964 and 1990.  Italy boycotted Eurovision from 1998 upto its comeback in 2011. It has been a part of The Big 5 since its return. Italy has finished in the Top 10 in 4 of the last 5 years. 

FRANCE

Last win: 1977

Best result since last win: #2 (1990 & 1991)

France participated in the debut staging of Eurovision in 1956. It was a dominant force in the ESC"s early years. Its first victory in 1958 was repeated in 1960, 1962, 1969 (tie) and 1977. In recent years, France has struggled to make the Top 10, with its last strong finish being in 2009 (#8).

SPAIN

Last win: 1969

Best result since last win: #2 (1971, 1973, 1979 & 1995)

Spain first appeared at Eurovision in 1961 and has been a regular ever since. Its first win was in 1968.  In the following year, there was a 4-way tie for the top prize which included Spain's entry.