This morning, the EBU, the European Broadcasting Union, revealed that Martin Österdahl is stepping down, as Executive Supervisor, of the Eurovision Song Contest.

Reflecting on his time as the Executive Supervisor, of the Eurovision Song Contest, Martin Österdahl had the following to say:

“From day one, I was inspired by the Contest’s unique potential and power to unite people through music – never more so than in 2021, when we brought Eurovision back live to millions around the world amid a global pandemic, demonstrating the resilience and spirit at the heart of our community. I am immensely proud of the changes we made to modernize and strengthen the Eurovision Song Contest. These include establishing the permanent ‘United By Music’ slogan for the event, attracting long-term sponsors and brand-extension partnerships, and growing engagement and reach on our digital platforms that have brought millions of new fans to the Contest. 

The ESC is now an event where hundreds of thousands sign up to buy tickets, a show watched by hundreds of millions, connecting with youth audiences worldwide, and stands as a unique platform for overnight global success for artists and songwriters. 

As my overall involvement with the ESC is now approaching a period of twenty years in total, it has been the honour of my professional life to steer the world’s largest music event, developing the Contest as a global super brand that brings joy to more people than ever before. 

I am deeply grateful to the entire ESC community and particularly to the ESC Core Team, participating broadcasters, artists, and fans for their passion and support.” 

Martin Green CBE, Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, had the following to say:

“On behalf of everyone at the EBU, all our participating broadcasters, partners and the entire Eurovision Song Contest community, I extend my sincere thanks to Martin Österdahl for his vision, expertise and tireless commitment to the event. His steady leadership through some of the Contest’s most challenging and innovative years has set new standards of excellence. As we approach our 70th anniversary next year, Martin is leaving his role having played an integral part in growing the Eurovision Song Contest brand and ensuring its bright future. We thank him for his amazing work and lasting impact on the Song Contest, and wish him every success.”

Martin Green CBE, who was appointed Director of the Eurovision Song Contest in 2024, will assume the Executive Supervisor’s duties on an interim basis. Further announcements regarding the future structure of the Eurovision Song Contest team will be made in due course.

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Author: Richard Taylor

Source: eurovision.tv