Eurovision win would see 'strong claim' from Cork to host next year, Taoiseach says

TAOISEACH Simon Harris has said that he is firmly behind Irish Eurovision final qualifier Bambie Thug, and believes they have “a real chance” of winning the whole competition in Malmö, Sweden tonight.

Bambie Thug landed a place in the grand final following a vote for their performance of ‘Doomsday Blue’ in the first semi-final on Tuesday.

It makes them the first Irish finalist since 2018, when Ryan O’Shaughnessy represented Ireland.

Speaking during a visit to Fermoy yesterday, Mr Harris said he was delighted to see Ireland in the Eurovision final following the success at the semi-final stage by the Macroom-born singer/songwriter.

He said: “For the first time since 2018, Ireland is in the final of the Eurovision. That is down to Bambie Thug.

“They have been absolutely incredible. They have done this country absolutely proud.

“I am so proud of them as Taoiseach of this country.

“They are on the world stage in front of a global audience. I wish Bambie Thug every good luck.

“I know the whole country will be rooting for them, and I know particularly Cork will be rooting for them. We have a real chance.

“If we win the Eurovision, I am quite sure Cork will have a strong claim that if Cork won it, Cork should host it.”

The final of Eurovision Song Contest was previously held in Millstreet, Cork, in May 1993, when Irish entrant Niamh Kavanagh claimed first prize after seeing off the challenge from British popstar Sonia.