Eurovision 2020 cancelled over coronavirus
The event was due to take place at Rotterdam's Ahoy Arena, with the final on 16 May.
"We, like the millions of you around the world, are extremely saddened that it can not take place in May," said the organizers in a statement.
"Over the past few weeks, we have explored many alternative options to allow the Eurovision Song Contest to go ahead. However, the uncertainty created by the spread of COVID-19 throughout Europe – and the restrictions put in place by the governments of the participating broadcasters and the Dutch authorities - means the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has taken the difficult decision to not continue with the live event as planned. The health of artists, staff, fans and visitors, as well as the situation in the Netherlands, Europe and the world, is at the heart of this decision," the organizers noted.
The event's executive supervisor, Jon Ola Sand, added: "We are very proud of the Eurovision Song Contest, that for 64 years has united people all around Europe. We regret this situation very much, but I can promise you: the Eurovision Song Contest will come back stronger than ever."
He added that talks were already underway about staging the contest in Rotterdam next year.
As Ukrinform reported, the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) a pandemic.
