“Stefania” of the Ukrainian band Kalush is the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest whose final took place last night at the Pala Olimpico. Nothing to do for Italy which, with Mahmood and Blanco (the song was “Shivers”, first at the Sanremo festival) is in sixth place.
Given as favorites already on the eve, the Kalush brought the tradition of their country to the stage, supported also by the messages disseminated by President Volodymyr Zelensky who on Telegram had invited to support the group: "Very soon in the Eurovision final, the continent and the whole world will listen to the words of our land. I believe that ultimately this word will be 'Victory'. We support our compatriots, we support Ukraine ”. But the band risked disqualification because at the end of the performance they had sent a political message, “please help Ukraine and Mariupol, help Azovstal now”, which is forbidden by the regulation.
The hosts were Alessandro Cattelan, Mika and Laura Pausini, who had a difficult moment due to a drop in pressure but then recovered.
In second place came Great Britain, third Spain.
Ovation for the Maneskin, who triumphed last year, with the singer Damiano a bit limping due to the sprained ankle suffered during the shooting of their latest video, “Supermodel”.
Also present was Gigliola Cinquetti with “I don't have age” which she had brought in 1964 to what at the time was called Eurofestival.
(Unioneonline / ss)