Sam Ryder shares heartfelt message to Ukraine after it's confirmed the UK will host Eurovision 2023

Following the news that the UK will host Eurovision 2023, after Ukraine's win this year, Sam Ryder has shared a heartfelt message to Ukraine and all Eurovision fans.

After months of rumours it was confirmed on 25th July, that the UK would host the Eurovision Song Contest next year, due to the war in Ukraine. In a tweet Eurovision said: 'The United Kingdom will host #Eurovision 2023! 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧', following with another tweet clarifying: 'Ukraine will automatically qualify for the Grand Final along with the Big 5 🏆'.

Now, this year's UK Eurovision entrant Sam Ryder has shared his thoughts on the news. In the video, which has now had more than 15k likes he said: "Hey friends, just a couple of thoughts... it's Ukraine's party, we're just inviting them to throw it at our house. I know how much it meant to Kalush and the Ukraine delegation that Eurovision would be held at home in Ukraine next year."

He continued: "And I'm not the only one whose heart is heavy knowing that can't be the case at this moment in time, but what I would love to say to anyone watching this from Ukraine is that we know how to throw a party here in the UK and our excitement is outshone only by our focus on that one sole objective, to hold space and to be on hand to help wherever needed, to host an event that celebrates Ukrainian culture, history and music..."

The singer goes on to say: "The rest of us are just loving facilitators", ending the video: "I love you and I'll see you soon. Peace."

Now that it has been confirmed that the UK will host the competition the hunt for the venue has started, with many cities including London, Manchester and Glasgow all hoping to be chosen to host Eurovision 2023.

Now take a look at some of the most watched Eurovision performances of all time:

Now read:

UK confirmed to host Eurovision Song Contest 2023

UK's Sam Ryder finishes SECOND at Eurovision Song Contest 2022

How to listen to KISS:

Listen to KISS and all of the KISS Network stations on our free Rayo app, by hitting the play button on the bottom of your screen and on your smart speaker (‘Play KISS FM’). Plus KISSTORY R&B is now available on DAB nationally and KISS Fresh, KISS Dance via DAB+ in London.

• sam ryder
• Eurovision