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Sam Ryder most successful Eurovision UK act in 24 years as Ukraine wins

On Saturday night (May 14), Sam Ryder became the most successful UK artist at Eurovision since 1998 with his song Space Man, finishing in second place to Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra, who won with Stefania following a huge display of public support for the country in light of its invasion by Russia.

The Ukrainian rap-folk outfit were granted special permission to leave the country to perform at Eurovision 2022, which was held in the Italian city of Turin. They won the contest with a total of 631 points.

Meanwhile, following years in the Eurovision wilderness, highlighted by last year’s last place, nul points finish for UK entry James Newman and his song Embers, Ryder produced a largely unexpected second place finish. This was the best finish registered by a UK artist since Imaani’s Where Are You? also took silver in 1998. The UK’s last Eurovision vistory came the year before, with Katrina And The Waves’ Love Shine A Light.

Former construction worker Ryder topped the jury vote at Eurovision 2022 with 283 points, but came fifth in the public vote, which is where Ukraine soared to victory.

"This is the tip of an iceberg," Ryder told the BBC afterwards. "The UK is going to be a force next year. It's gonna be mad."

"This is a red letter moment," added Graham Norton, who presented the contest on BBC One. "I am so happy for [Sam], for the UK and for the BBC who have worked so hard to turn our fortunes."

Kalush Orchestra’s winning song, Stefania, was written initially as a tribute to frontman Oleh Psiuk's mother. However, it has now been re-purposed to address the Ukraine and its people after the Russian invasion that began three months ago.

"After it all started with the war and the hostilities, it took on additional meaning, and many people started seeing it as their mother, Ukraine, in the meaning of the country," Psiuk said. "It has become really close to the hearts of so many people in Ukraine."

Receiving the Eurovision trophy, Psiuk stated: "Thank you for supporting Ukraine. This victory is for every Ukrainian. Slava Ukraini."

Speaking backstage, he told the BBC: "I'm sure that next year Ukraine will be happy to host Europe in a new, integrated and happy Ukraine."

As of yet, a decision has not been made on where Eurovision 2023 will be hosted. Traditionally, the winner hosts the event the following year, although the war in Ukraine means that any such plans for next year’s ceremony are currently on hold.

In a statement on Saturday night, Eurovision organiser the EBU said no decision had been made for 2023.

"Obviously, there are unique challenges involved in hosting next year's competition. However, as in any other year, we look forward to discussing all the requirements and responsibilities involved in hosting the competition with UA:PBC and all other stakeholders to ensure we have the most suitable setup for the 67th Eurovision Song Contest."

Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky did, however, claim that he would stage the contest if at all possible: "We will do our best to one day host the participants and guests of Eurovision in Ukrainian Mariupol. Free, peaceful, rebuilt!"