The EBU, the Dutch broadcasters and contest organisers have published extensive COVID-19 health and safety protocol for Eurovision 2021. Details have been revealed in a press release shared today.
The announcement mentions strict protocols to ensure the smooth running of the competition, in the case of scenario B. The protocol thus concerns all the people on the site (artists, journalists, workers).
Martin Österdahl, the Eurovision Song Contest’s Executive Supervisor, explains:
“We are moving forward with our plans to produce a safe Eurovision Song Contest, with all artists performing live in Rotterdam. This protocol demonstrates our commitment to make this happen, with the health and safety of everyone attending, including crew and press, our top priority.”
The protocol includes the following measures:
- A 72 hours negative Covid19 test result
- A 5 days quarantine for those coming from abroad
- Lockdown for the contestants and their teams (except during preparatory phase for the performances and rehearsals)
- Regular testing for those working on the site
These measures could still evolve to be adapted to the health situation in Rotterdam.
The decision to favor scenario B was reaffirmed by the EBU authorities. Should circumstances change in the coming weeks the event can still be scaled down further.
“Under Scenario B the number of people in each delegation has been reduced from previous editions, and the number of journalists who can attend the event will also be capped at 500 with a further 1,000 able to cover the show in a new online press centre.”
Regarding the presence or absence of an audience on the site, no decision has yet been taken. This will be decided upon soon.
41 public service broadcasters will submit entries for the 65th Eurovision Song Contest. Two Semi-Finals will be staged on Tuesday 18 and Thursday 20 May at the Rotterdam Ahoy Arena in the Netherlands. The Grand Final, featuring 26 songs, will be held on Saturday 22 May at 21.00 CEST.
Are you convinced by the health and safety protocol as enacted? Do you believe that there will be a live audience in Rotterdam? Give us your opinions in the comments section!
