Eurovision 2024 running order: What spot is the UK in the line-up? When will Olly Alexander perform?

Eurovision 2024 running order: What spot is the UK in the line-up? When will Olly Alexander perform?

WATCH HERE: Ireland's Eurovision entry Bambie Thug sparked controversy with her 'Satanic' performance in the semi-finals

BBC
Alex Davies

By Alex Davies


Published: 11/05/2024

- 07:00

All 26 countries competing in this year's Eurovision Song Contest now know when they'll take to the stage

The Eurovision Song Contest 2024 is just hours away from kicking off as thousands of pop fans have descended on the Swedish city of Malmo.

Following two explosive semi-finals, the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) finally knows which 26 countries will be represented at this year's extravaganza.


As usual, 'The Big Five' of the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Germany and Italy automatically qualified for the grand finale along with hosts Sweden.

The other 20 countries were voted for earlier this week over two semis, with the likes of Ireland's controversial act Bambie Thug sailing through along with Israel's Eden Golan - who has been the subject of security worries amid pro-Palestine protests in the city.

The bookies have already identified their favourites with Croatia and Switzerland among the frontrunners after they secured their spots in the finale while the UK's representative Olly Alexander is priced as a rank outsider to bag victory.

But at what point in the running order will UK-based fans be able to watch Alexander perform? The full running order for this year's contest is as follows:

  1. Sweden
  2. Ukraine
  3. Germany
  4. Luxembourg
  5. Netherlands
  6. Israel
  7. Lithuania
  8. Spain
  9. Estonia
  10. Ireland
  11. Latvia
  12. Greece

13. United Kingdom

14. Norway

15. Italy

16. Serbia

17. Finland

18. Portugal

19. Armenia

20. Cyprus

21. Switzerland

22. Slovenia

23. Croatia

24. Georgia

25. France

26. Austria

The official Eurovision X account confirmed the running order on Friday morning, and it's safe to say it sparked quite a mixed reaction from fans online.

Reacting to the post, one X user hit back: "This is a sign that the producers want a (Croatia) win at all costs."

While a Spanish fan raged: "Spain in eighth position after the stadium fell during their performance yesterday? We Spaniards are already tired of the continuous contempt of the EBU despite being one of the countries that contributes the most money and audiences.

"Maybe it is necessary to imitate Italy and go away for a few years so that you begin to appreciate us a little."

Olly AlexanderOlly Alexander was elated when unveiled as this year's Eurovision act on Strictly last year BBC

Elsewhere, another fan was outraged by Ukraine being so high up the running order: "Should be SO ASHAMED of putting Ukraine 2. Shameful and all on purpose. The most beautiful, powerful, moving and professional performance of the year. 🇺🇦 Glory to Ukraine! GO GIRLS GO! Emotions all around."

And a fourth hit out: "That’s the worst running order I’ve seen in my life. My winners Ukraine in the death slot is a crime whilst Croatia & Switzerland are performing alongside each other to cancel the other one out which may allow the dark horse Ireland to deliver a shock crowning of the witch #ESC24."

Meanwhile, a fifth claimed: "It’s clear they want Croatia, France or Switzerland to win and prevent a win for Ukraine, Israel or Netherlands. But I think it will be different." (sic)

Coverage of the Eurovision Song Contest in UK begins at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer with Graham Norton providing the commentary.

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