Eurovision Song Contest   Sat 24 May 2008

The Eurovision Song Contest returns to our screens on Saturday night and Eurovision betting fans face an unusually complex task in deciding the likely winner. Accusations of ‘bloc’ conspiracies abound with various country groupings allegedly trading votes to climb to the top of the pile. Let’s face it though, the voting system has always been wayward and international taste varies so much it’s near impossible to foretell.

Having said that, Ladbrokes are tipping Russian entrant, Dima Bilan, to claim the top accolade at the Belgrade arena in what will be the European Union’s biggest ever TV show. Bilan came second to the memorable Finnish heavy metallers who amazingly won everyone over in 2006. On Tuesday, in the first semi-final, Bilan beat off his main rival, a singing turkey, to reach the final with his song ‘Believe’.

The contest has suffered much derision in recent years but, taken for what it is (a surreal kind of international musical circus) there is something about it that has attracted ever-increasing numbers of fans over the years. The United Kingdom and Terry Wogan in particular, have been criticised by the organisers for not giving the show due respect and this may therefore be Terry’s last year. I believe Terry is the one thing that has kept British interest on board and losing him could possibly ring the death knell of our involvement.

Our contribution tonight has been described as our worst ever offering and online betting fans will doubtless steer well clear. Far better to get into the live betting on the night where the chances of seeing where the voting is going are much greater.