People thinking July was too early for an artist reveal might still be correct!
Israeli singer Noa Kirel has said her Eurovision 2023 participation is still a “maybe” despite being announced as Israel’s artist by broadcaster Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC/KAN) yesterday.
Speaking in an interview with 103 FM’s Raz Shechnik, the 21-year-old distanced herself from being officially confirmed, saying “We’ll make a decision later on.”
“First of all, it’s a great honour that they chose me. It’s really exciting, and as a kid I always watched [the contest]. So there’s something very grand about it, a lot of responsibility on my shoulders. I’m not taking this whole thing in yet. I’m taking a few days off to understand […] what’s happening. It’s a really big deal. Right now, I’m concentrating only on [my upcoming concert].”
She went on to say: “This just happened and we’re still in the middle of this whole thing. My team and I will take some time to figure it all out. Together, we will make a decision, slowly.”
One thing that caught fan’s attention yesterday was that despite being announced as the Israeli representative for Eurovision, Kirel didn’t post anything about it across social media. So while Noa Kirel seems honoured to be selected by the Israeli delegation, the decision about whether she will go to Eurovision appears undecided on her side.
It is important to note that just because she has said “maybe” in this interview doesn’t mean she won’t go to Eurovision. Eurovision 2022 runner up Sam Ryder has said in interviews that he didn’t initially accept the offer to represent the UK in Turin, but always knew he was going to eventually. The difference of course between these two scenarios is that Sam Ryder confirmed his desire to represent the UK before the BBC announced their artist.
If Noa Kirel doesn't go, who could?
According to a report by Eran Swissa, singer Mergui lost to Noa Kirel in the internal selection by only one point. This could mean that if Kirel declines the offer, Israel could be sending him to Eurovision instead.
Mergui is a 22-year-old singer from Tel Aviv. Eurofans might recognise Mergui as he came second to Netta in Next Star for Eurovision 2018. Ironically, Mergui is Noa Kirel’s ex-boyfriend.
What do you think about the situation? Will Noa Kirel eventually accept the offer or will someone like Mergui represent Israel? Let us know in the comments below!
