https://i2-prod.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/incoming/article17638785.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/0_10838036-high_res-eurovision-2019.jpg
Will Britain also have to leave Eurovision?
(Image: BBC/So TV/Christopher Baines/Matt Burlem)

Will the UK still be able to compete in Eurovision after Brexit?

Are we still allowed to enter the Eurovision Song Contest when we leave the European Union?

by

Thousands of eclectic music fans sit down each year to watch countries compete in the Eurovision Song Contest- and even throw their own parties to mark the occasion.

The UK has participated in the competition 62 times, with a first performance in 1957.

But could it be the end for Britain's long-standing part in the show post Brexit?

https://i2-prod.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/incoming/article17638844.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_Michael-Rice.jpg
Michael Rice of Great Britain performs the song "Bigger Than Us" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel
(Image: AP)

Although Britain is leaving the European Union on January 31 following a referendum from more than three years ago, it doesn't mean our annual fun will be axed - and a number of people have confirmed this.

While divided Brits were hoping it would be the last of the extravagant and somewhat corny performances, the show must go on.

There are some non-EU countries already taking part in the singing competition, including Russia, Israel, and Australia, who are also not a part of the European Union.

Former Prime Minister, David Cameron, told PMQs before the referendum: "I think that would not only be very sad but I think given that Israel and Azerbaijan and anyone anywhere near Europe seems to be able to – (even) Australia – I think we're pretty safe from that one."

The European Broadcasting Union, which organises the event, also issued a statement back in 2016 regarding the role of the BBC and the show.

It read: "The BBC is a Member of the European Broadcasting Union and is, and will remain, eligible to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest.

https://i2-prod.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/incoming/article17639180.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_Eurovision-Song-Contest-2019-Dress-Rehearsal.jpg
Netta Barzilai live on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest
(Image: Getty Images)

"Just like many broadcasters from countries that are not a member of the European Union.

"The BBC and the UK have a long relationship with the Eurovision Song Contest. The BBC, representing the UK, will therefore remain a welcome participant in the Contest next year and going forward."

The president of the UK Eurovision fan club, Alasdair Rendall, has also reassured fans in the past and said Britain's position would not be under threat.

He said: "We would not be barred. All participating countries must be a member of the European Broadcasting Union" - which is independent of the EU.

But will the UK's decision to pull out of the European Union do any favours for our votes in this year's show?

The Eurovision final returns on Saturday, May 16, 2020.