All tickets for Vienna ESC shows sold out in record time - Eurovision 2024 in Vienna sparks record demand and political boycotts
This year’s Eurovision Song Contest has drawn both record-breaking demand and political controversy. Tickets for the event in Vienna sold out within minutes, yet several countries have pulled out in protest over Israel’s participation.
The contest, organised by the EBU and hosted at the Wiener Stadthalle, will feature just 35 countries—the smallest number in over two decades.
The 2024 Eurovision Song Contest will take place in Vienna, with the Wiener Stadthalle serving as the host venue. With a capacity larger than any recent Eurovision location, the arena quickly attracted massive interest. Tickets for the semi-finals vanished in 20 minutes, while the final sold out in just 14 minutes. Even public dress rehearsals were fully booked within an hour.
Yet the event has also sparked division. The Netherlands, Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and Iceland announced a boycott due to Israel’s inclusion. This follows last year’s contest in Liverpool, where Israel’s Noa Kirel performed 'Unicorn' and finished 12th despite ongoing debates about the Gaza conflict. The EBU and BBC, who co-organised the 2023 edition, have not commented on the latest boycotts.
The contest will proceed with 35 participating nations, marking the lowest turnout since the early 2000s. Vienna’s venue is set for packed crowds, though the absence of five countries highlights ongoing tensions. Organisers have not indicated any changes to the lineup or schedule.
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