Sweden wins Eurovision Song Contest while Russia is booed
Sixth Eurovision victory for Sweden, 41 years after Abba won with 'Waterloo'
Sweden beat Russia to win the 60th Eurovision Song Contest on Saturday, in an event described by organizers as beyond politics but marred by boos for the Russian that were apparently prompted by the Ukraine conflict and the Kremlin’s anti-gay policies.
Italy took third in Europe’s iconic songfest, which this year carried the extra attraction of an entry by Australia. Many were hoping its candidate, Guy Sebastian, would take home the trophy, giving it a place in next year’s contest. But Australia, given a wild-card entry this year due to its enthusiastic fan base, came fifth, not enough to secure a spot in 2016.
The race between Russian star Polina Gagarina and Sweden’s Mans Zelmerlow went back and forth for most of the balloting as jurors from 40 countries voted along a worldwide audience submitting their preference by phone and app.
Zelmerlow finally triumphed with 365 points, with Gagarina receiving 303.
Sweden’s sixth Eurovision victory came 41 years after Swedish group Abba’s triumph with “Waterloo” launched their world career. Only Ireland has been more successful, with seven triumphs.
In his pop number “Heroes,” the Swede chose to forego the usual elaborate stage effects, relying instead on his strong singing and an innovative backdrop.