Netherlands crowned Eurovision winners in nail-biting vote while Britain's Michael Rice comes LAST with just 16 points as Madonna is slammed for 'tone deaf' vocals and her backing dancers display Israeli and Palestinian flags - without approval from organisers

  • Madonna angered musicians and pro-Palestinian activists from the BDS campaign for appearing in Israel
  • But the singer's performance featured dancers displaying Israeli and Palestinian flags as they embraced  
  • Former X-Factor contestant Michael Rice, aged 21, finished last performing 'Bigger than us' for Britain 
  • The Netherlands pipped Italy in a nail-biting vote finale with Duncan Laurence, 25, emerging victorious

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The Netherlands have triumphed at the 64th Eurovision Song Contest in Israel - while Britain's Michael Rice finished bottom of the pile on just 16 points.    

Duncan Laurence, 25, won with 492 points. He was named the Eurovision front-runner shortly after releasing his anthemic piano ballad Arcade in March and remained the bookies' favourite ever since.

Gold glitter rained from the ceiling as Laurence's name was called and he climbed back on stage to lift the trophy, handed to him by Netta Barzilai. 

But the UK finished last for the first time since 2010 as former X-Factor contestant Michael Rice scored just 16 points with his power ballad, Bigger Than Us.

Rice, from Hartlepool, had earlier expressed a wish to improve the UK's reputation at the contest. This is despite the UK not entering the top 10 in a decade.

Madonna also appeared on the show but her performance was marred by criticism as viewers slammed her 'tone deaf' vocals and reliance on autotune.   

Duncan Laurence, 25, of the Netherlands reacts after winning the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Saturday, when Britain finished last

Duncan Laurence, 25, of the Netherlands reacts after winning the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night, where Britain came last 

Madonna performs during a guest appearance at the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel. Viewers slammed her as 'tone deaf' and criticised her use of autotune

Madonna performs during a guest appearance at the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel. Viewers slammed her as 'tone deaf' and criticised her use of autotune 

Kate Miller-Heidke, representing Australia, performs live on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv in Israel last night

Kate Miller-Heidke, representing Australia, performs live on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv in Israel last night 

Madonna (pictured on stage at the 64th Eurovision Song Contest last night) was criticised over her performance of Like a Prayer in Tel Aviv

Madonna (pictured on stage at the 64th Eurovision Song Contest last night) was criticised over her performance of Like a Prayer in Tel Aviv 

Pictured: Madonna takes to the stage in a performance that was marred by criticism as viewers derided her as tone deaf. The singer had already faced anger over her decision to appear at the final in Israel

Pictured: Madonna takes to the stage in a performance that was marred by criticism as viewers derided her as tone deaf. The singer had already faced anger over her decision to appear at the final in Israel

Madonna (pictured on stage in Tel Aviv last night) performed her 1989 hit Like A Prayer before premiering her new song, Future, with Migos Rapper Quavo

Madonna (pictured on stage in Tel Aviv last night) performed her 1989 hit Like A Prayer before premiering her new song, Future, with Migos Rapper Quavo 

Pictured: Duncan Laurence of the Netherlands holds up the trophy after winning the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night

Pictured: Duncan Laurence of the Netherlands holds up the trophy after winning the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night 

Duncan Laurence, 25, (pictured at the 64th Eurovision in Tel Aviv, Israel) topped to competition last night, with Britain finishing last

Duncan Laurence, 25, (pictured at the 64th Eurovision in Tel Aviv, Israel) topped to competition last night, with Britain finishing last 

The Netherlands were the bookmakers' favourite going into Saturday's Eurovision song contest finals, and emerged triumphant in Tel Aviv as Duncan Laurence (pictured on stage last night) came in first

The Netherlands were the bookmakers' favourite going into Saturday's Eurovision song contest finals, and emerged triumphant in Tel Aviv as Duncan Laurence (pictured on stage last night) came in first 

In a statement this week, Madonna (pictured on stage last night at Eurovision) said she wanted to use her performance to create 'a new path toward peace' and would not be cowed by political pressure after pro-Palestinian activists criticised her for appearing at the contest in Israel

In a statement this week, Madonna (pictured on stage last night at Eurovision) said she wanted to use her performance to create 'a new path toward peace' and would not be cowed by political pressure after pro-Palestinian activists criticised her for appearing at the contest in Israel  

Pictured: Madonna's backing dancers display the flags of Israel and Palestine. Eurovision has now confirmed they were not an approved part of the show and Madonna has 'been made aware' the event is supposed to be 'non-political'

Pictured: Madonna's backing dancers display the flags of Israel and Palestine. Eurovision has now confirmed they were not an approved part of the show and Madonna has 'been made aware' the event is supposed to be 'non-political'

Eurovision is supposed to be 'non-political' however the build-up was been marred by controversy and calls for a boycott by pro-Palestinian activists due to it being held in Tel Aviv. Madonna (pictured on stage at Eurovision last night) displayed the Israeli and Palestinian flags during her performance

Eurovision is supposed to be 'non-political' however the build-up was been marred by controversy and calls for a boycott by pro-Palestinian activists due to it being held in Tel Aviv. Madonna (pictured on stage at Eurovision last night) displayed the Israeli and Palestinian flags during her performance 

As Madonna performed her new song Future with Migos Rapper Quavo, which appears on her upcoming 14th album Madame X, the pair stood in front of a screen that said 'Wake Up'

As Madonna performed her new song Future with Migos Rapper Quavo, which appears on her upcoming 14th album Madame X, the pair stood in front of a screen that said 'Wake Up' 

Organisers also said a section of Madonna's performance, during which dancers wore Israeli and Palestinian flags on the backs of their outfits, was not an approved part of the act.  

Eurovision results in full 

1. The Netherlands (Duncan Laurence with Arcade) - 492 

2. Italy (Mahmood with Soldi) - 465

3. Russia (Sergey Lazarev with Scream) - 369

4. Switzerland (Luca Hanni with She Got Me) - 360

5. Norway (KEiiNO with Spirit In The Sky) - 338

6. Sweden (John Lundvik with Too Late For Love) -332

7. Azerbaijan (Chingiz with Truth) - 297

8. North Macedonia (Tamara Todevska with Proud) - 295

9. Australia (Kate Miller-Heidke with Zero Gravity) - 285

10. Iceland (Hatari with Hatrio Mun Sigra) - 234

11. Czech Republic (Lake Malawi with Friend Of A Friend) - 157

12. Denmark (Leonora with Love Is Forever) - 120

13. Slovenia (Zala Kralj and Gasper Santl with Sebi) - 105

14. France (Bilal Hassani with Roi) - 105

15. Cyprus (Tamta with Replay) - 101

16. Malta (Michela Pace with Chameleon) - 95

17. Serbia (Nevena Bozovic with Kruna) - 92

18. Albania (Jonida Maliqi with Ktheju Tokes) - 90

19. Estonia (Victor Crone with Storm) - 86

20. San Marino (Serhat with Say Na Na Na) - 81

21. Greece (Katerine Duska with Better Love) - 71

22. Spain (Miki with La Venda) - 60

23. Israel (Kobi Marimi with Home) - 47

24. Germany (S!sters with Sister) - 32

25. Belarus (Zena with Like It) - 31

26. United Kingdom (Michael Rice with Bigger Than Us) - 16

 

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Eurovision said: 'In the live broadcast of the Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final, two of Madonna's dancers briefly displayed the Israeli and Palestinian flags on the back of their outfits.

'This element of the performance was not part of the rehearsals which had been cleared with the EBU and the host broadcaster, KAN. 

'The Eurovision Song Contest is a non-political event and Madonna had been made aware of this.'

A 35-strong choir and 30 dancers dressed as monks accompanied the Queen of Pop as she sang her 1989 hit Like a Prayer on its 30th anniversary at the Expo venue in Tel Aviv last night. 

Madonna appeared at the top of a flight of steps, dressed in a cape and hood and wearing a metal breastplate. 

Brandishing a cross, she stepped slowly towards the crowd and sung Like A Prayer to raucous applause. 

As the song reached it climax, her dancers pulled their hoods aside to reveal gas masks adorned with flowers. 

The 60-year-old star then performed new song Future with Migos Rapper Quavo, which appears on her upcoming 14th album Madame X. 

But her highly-anticipated and controversial performance was slammed online and she was accused of being out of tune as she took to the stage following a four-year hiatus. 

Madonna had previously been criticized by musicians and pro-Palestinian activists from the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign, who called on her to cancel the show.

But in a statement this week, Madonna said she wanted to use her performance to create 'a new path toward peace' and would not be cowed by political pressure. 

Earlier in the night she appeared in a pre-recorded message, warning the public 'not underestimate the power of music to bring people together'.

She said: 'You're all winners, no matter what happens. The reason I mean that is because to get here, where you are right now, is not easy. Right?

'First you had a dream and then you had to believe in that dream, and you had to make many sacrifices. That makes you a winner no matter what.

'Another really obvious statement is, look at all the delegates behind us, everyone here is from all over the world. So many countries that I have been privileged not just to visit but to experience.

'And the one thing that brings me to those countries, and the thing that brings all these people here tonight, is music.

'So let's not underestimate the power of music to bring people together. That's the most important thing. Music makes the people come together.'  

Earlier Britain's 21-year-old Eurovision entry Michael Rice took to the stage in Tel Aviv, hoping to turn around the UK's fortunes and bring the crown back to Britain for the first time in 22 years. 

He was joined by an outfit of backing vocalists dressed in white as he broke into the song's gospel-influenced chorus. 

UK viewers praised presenter Graham Norton's catty commentary for his 'British sarcasm' - after he compared the Albanian contestant's dress to a Christmas tree.  

The 60-year-old singer (pictured on stage at Eurovision in Tel Aviv last night) faced criticism for her performance. Her decision to appear at the contest came under fire amid tensions in the Middle East

The 60-year-old singer (pictured on stage at Eurovision in Tel Aviv last night) faced criticism for her performance. Her decision to appear at the contest came under fire amid tensions in the Middle East 

Madonna and Quavo perform their new song - Future - in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest, at which Britain came in last

Madonna and Quavo perform their new song - Future - in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest, at which Britain came in last 

Madonna was accompanied by a 35-strong choir and dancers dressed as monks as she performed live on stage after the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv

Madonna was accompanied by a 35-strong choir and dancers dressed as monks as she performed live on stage after the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv

Madonna (pictured after her performance) sang her 1989 hit 'Like a Prayer' accompanied by a 35-strong choir at the grand final of the 64th Eurovision song contest in Tel Aviv

Madonna (pictured after her performance) sang her 1989 hit 'Like a Prayer' accompanied by a 35-strong choir at the grand final of the 64th Eurovision song contest in Tel Aviv

Madonna told Eurovision's host she believes music brings everyone together and that all the Eurovision contestants are winners by simply participating

Madonna told Eurovision's host she believes music brings everyone together and that all the Eurovision contestants are winners by simply participating 

Madonna (pictured at the 64th Eurovision in Tel Aviv last night) performed her classic hit Like a Prayer and displayed Israeli and Palestinian flags during her performance

Madonna (pictured at the 64th Eurovision in Tel Aviv last night) performed her classic hit Like a Prayer and displayed Israeli and Palestinian flags during her performance 

UK ENTRY MICHAEL RICE FINISHES LAST AT THE EUROVISION SONG CONTEST 

The UK has been snubbed at the Eurovision Song Contest - coming last for the first time since 2010.

Michael Rice scored just 16 points between the public vote and international jury vote on a night when The Netherlands' Duncan Laurence won the crown with his song Arcade, scoring 492 points.

Hartlepool native Rice sang Bigger Than Us at the Expo Tel Aviv venue in Israel against a backdrop of a starry night sky and racing comets. But his performance failed to soar and did not connect with the international crowd.

Despite the disappointment on the night, Rice remained upbeat and said he had enjoyed his Eurovision experience.

He said: 'The main thing I wanted to do was come and sing my heart out and make my country proud. I'm so thankful to the fans who have supported me and the song, as well as my whole team who have supported me throughout this whole amazing journey.

'I've been able to travel and meet amazing artists from across Europe and beyond. I can't wait to see what's next for me and get back into the studio and bring you some new music soon. And of course congratulations to Duncan - he was amazing!'

The public votes made up 50% of the total vote, with the other half determined by the professional jury in each participating country.

Gold glitter rained from the roof as Laurence's name was called out before the 25-year-old lifted the trophy, handed to him by last year's winner, Israeli singer Netta Barzilai.

He said: 'Oh god, this is to music first. Thank you, thank you.'

Rice, who rose to fame after winning the singing show All Together Now last year, said previously that he hoped to improve the UK's reputation at the contest.

The UK has not won Eurovision in 22 years or finished in the top 10 in the past decade. Prospects of a British victory were bleak - both Coral and Ladbrokes gave Rice a 150/1 chance of taking the title. He performed 16th, after Norway and before Iceland - whose techno-punk outfit Hatari were a favourite to win. 

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Michael Rice (pictured on stage in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night) performed the song 'Bigger Than Us' as he represented Great Britain and finished in last place

Michael Rice (pictured on stage in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night) performed the song 'Bigger Than Us' as he represented Great Britain and finished in last place 

The former X-Factor contestant (pictured on stage at Eurovision last night) from Hartlepool was one of 26 acts vying for the top prize during the climax of the week-long contest but finished last

The former X-Factor contestant (pictured on stage at Eurovision last night) from Hartlepool was one of 26 acts vying for the top prize during the climax of the week-long contest but finished last 

Michael Rice, 21, representing Great Britain, performs the song 'Bigger Than Us' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Israel last night

Michael Rice, 21, representing Great Britain, performs the song 'Bigger Than Us' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Israel last night 

Michael Rice is pictured performing Bigger Than Us on stage at the 64th Eurovision song contest were he wound up finishing in last place

Michael Rice is pictured performing Bigger Than Us on stage at the 64th Eurovision song contest were he wound up finishing in last place  

Hatari of Iceland performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv. Last night at the show he displayed Palestinian flags

Hatari of Iceland performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv. Last night at the show he displayed Palestinian flags 

Hatari of Iceland is pictured on stage last night at the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, where he showed solidarity with Palestinians

Hatari of Iceland is pictured on stage last night at the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, where he showed solidarity with Palestinians 

Participant ZENA of Belarus performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night

Participant ZENA of Belarus performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night

ZENA of Belarus performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, at a competition that faced criticism for being held in Israel

ZENA of Belarus performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, at a competition that faced criticism for being held in Israel 

This year's show kicked off with an Olympic-style flag parade to introduce the finalists and featured a performance by a cohort of the musical extravaganza's former stars.

Israel's Netta Barzilia and Dana International - both previous winners - were joined by Swedish champion Mans Zelmerlow for a performance of Omer Adam's song Tel Aviv, during which the 26 contestants were introduced before taking their seats to one side of the stage.

The finalists perform for the international public vote, which will make up 50 per cent of the total vote, with the other half determined by a professional jury in each participating country, who cast their votes during performances on Friday.  

However the jury vote from Belarus was not counted in the final score on Saturday evening because the country's officials broke the rules by revealing who they had voted for during Thursday's semi-final.  

The chair of the Belarussian jury Valeri Prigun, said on Tuesday that the jury voted 'almost unanimously' and that he favoured Estonia, Czech Republic and Georgia.

Other members said gave their highest marks to Australia. Belarus' own entry - 16-year-old Zena came one place above the UK - second from bottom.  

As per one of Eurovision's most famous quirks, fans can vote up to 20 times but will be unable to select their own country's entry. 

The UK's Michael Rice performed 16th, after Norway but before Iceland, whose techno-punk outfit Hatari had been among the favourites to win. 

Iceland's Eurovision contestants Hatari perform the song 'Hatrio mun sigra' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv

Iceland's Eurovision contestants Hatari perform the song 'Hatrio mun sigra' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv

Hatari (pictured on stage at Tel Aviv in Israel last night) defied Eurovision bosses with a shock political song predicting the 'collapse of the continent'

Hatari (pictured on stage at Tel Aviv in Israel last night) defied Eurovision bosses with a shock political song predicting the 'collapse of the continent'

Sisters (pictured on stage in Tel Aviv, Israel, at the 64th Eurovision song contest last night) perform their song, Sister, to raucous applause

Sisters (pictured on stage in Tel Aviv, Israel, at the 64th Eurovision song contest last night) perform their song, Sister, to raucous applause 

Australia's Kate Miller-Heidke performs the song 'Zero Gravity' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv last night

Australia's Kate Miller-Heidke performs the song 'Zero Gravity' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv last night

Spain's Miki performs the song 'La Venda' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night

Spain's Miki performs the song 'La Venda' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night 

Participant John Lundvik of Sweden performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel May 18, 2019
John Lundvik of Sweden performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest

John Lundvik performs for Sweden during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night 

Kate Miller-Heidke, representing Australia, performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night

Kate Miller-Heidke, representing Australia, performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night 

Madonna performed her 1989 hit 'Like a Prayer', accompanied by a 35-strong choir, and the world premiere of the song 'Future' from her forthcoming album
The 60-year-old pop diva has said she was determined to perform at the finals but her participation brought protests from the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement

Madonna (pictured at the 64th Eurovision song contest in Tel Aviv last night) performed her 1989 hit 'Like a Prayer', accompanied by a 35-strong choir, and the world premiere of the song 'Future' from her forthcoming album

Sisters of Germany perform the song 'Sister' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night

Sisters of Germany perform the song 'Sister' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night

Three-piece boyband Lake Malawi perform their pop-rock song Friend Of A Friend at the 64th Eurovision song contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night

Three-piece boyband Lake Malawi perform their pop-rock song Friend Of A Friend at the 64th Eurovision song contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night 

Israeli Netta Barzilai, the winner of the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest performs before the start of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv
Israeli singer Dana International performs during the Grand Final of the 2019

Previous winners from Israel Netta Barzilai (left) and Dana International (right) perform before the start of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv last night 

Serhat of San Marino performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night for the competition's 64th year

Serhat of San Marino performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night for the competition's 64th year 

Estonia's Victor Crone performs the song "Storm" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Estonia's Victor Crone performs the song 'Storm' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Tamara Todevska of North Macedonia performs the song "Proud" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv
Jonida Maliqi of Albania performs the song "Ktheju tokes" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel

Tamara Todevska of North Macedonia (left) and Jonida Maliqi of Albania perform during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night 

Israeli singer Netta Barzilai, winner of the 2018 Eurovision, performs during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv

Israeli singer Netta Barzilai, winner of the 2018 Eurovision, performs during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv

Israeli singer Dana International, winner of the 1998 Eurovision, performs during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019

Israeli singer Dana International, winner of the 1998 Eurovision, performs during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019

Eurovision hosts from left, Assi Azar, Lucy Ayoub, Bar Refaeli, and Erez Tal walk onto the stage for the start of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest

Eurovision hosts from left, Assi Azar, Lucy Ayoub, Bar Refaeli, and Erez Tal walk onto the stage for the start of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest

Participant Michela of Malta kicked off the Grand Final of the Eurovision song contest tonight with her performance of Chameleon

Participant Michela of Malta kicked off the Grand Final of the Eurovision song contest tonight with her performance of Chameleon

Bilal Hassani of France, center, performs the song 'Roi' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night amid calls to boycott this year's competition

Bilal Hassani of France, center, performs the song 'Roi' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night amid calls to boycott this year's competition 

Michaela of Malta performs performs the song 'Chameleon' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel
Finalist Michaela of Malta kicked off the competition this evening with her song 'Chamelon'

Pictured: Michaela of Malta performs performs the song 'Chameleon' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night 

The running order is decided by the European Broadcasting Union, Eurovision's governing body, and is designed to ensure each act has the opportunity to stand out

The running order is decided by the European Broadcasting Union, Eurovision's governing body, and is designed to ensure each act has the opportunity to stand out

UK fans can vote over the phone, by text or via the Eurovision app, available on iOS, Android and Windows devices. Shortly before the contest got underway, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt tweeted a good luck message to Michael.

He wrote: 'Best of luck to @MichaelRiceOff and all the UK team in Tel Aviv tonight! We are leaving the EU but Eurovision lives on in the glorious footsteps of Bucks Fizz.'

Malta's Michela Pace opened the show with her song Chameleon, dancing in front of shifting graphics showing an urban landscape.

Second was Albania's Jonida Maliqi with Ktheju Tokes - or 'Return To Your Land' - a dramatic and slow-paced track with lyrics referencing the Kosovo War.  

Third in front of the audience was three-piece boyband Lake Malawi with their pop-rock song Friend Of A Friend. The performance saw the group, from the Czech Republic, jumping around the stage.

Up next were the German duo S!ster with their aptly named song, Sister (although the two are not actually related). 

The pair sung from the tip of a catwalk reaching into the audience as sparks poured from the roof. They received the loudest cheer of the night so far.

The first real contender of the night took to the stage fifth - Russia's Sergey Lazarev who returns to the contest with the song Scream. Lazarev competed for Russia in 2016 when he finished third with the song You Are The Only One.  

NETHERLANDS' EUROVISION CHAMPION ESCHEWED PRODUCTION FOR SOUL 

This year's Eurovision Song Contest winner eschewed pyrotechnics and complex staging in favour of a tried and tested formula: a well-crafted song performed with great emotion.

Duncan Laurence's anthemic ballad Arcade won over the voting public and the international juries, securing 492 points.

The singer-songwriter and former contestant on The Voice Of Holland, 25, secured his nation its first Eurovision title since 1975, ensuring the contest will be held in the Netherlands next year.

Laurence was named front runner shortly after releasing the track - his debut effort as a musician - in March and remained the bookmakers' favourite during the contest.

Some cast doubt on whether the stripped-back staging of just him, a piano and projections would connect with an international audience watching at home.

But those doubts turned out to be unfounded when he raced through Thursday's semi-final and into Saturday night's grand final.

Laurence started his musical career at the Rock Academy in Tilburg, Netherlands, graduating in 2017.

He participated in the fifth season of The Voice Of Holland and was coached by Ilse DeLange, before going on to pen the song Closer for K-pop duo TVXQ in 2018.

Earlier in the week he told the Press Association he thought he could win if he refused to compromise over his performance.

Asked why he thought he had been named front runner, he said: 'It's because I didn't change a thing.

'I didn't want to change anything for Eurovision. I just wanted the song to be the song - as it was originally written. You should never rush it or change things.

'The committee really went for the song as it is. I only wanted to participate if I could do my own song - Arcade - in the state as it is or was back then.'

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Tamta of Cyprus performs the song "Replay" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Tamta of Cyprus performs the song 'Replay' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Duncan Laurence of the Netherlands performs the song "Arcade" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel

Duncan Laurence of the Netherlands performs the song 'Arcade' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel

Jean-Paul Gaultier (left) and supermodel Bar Refaeli during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

Jean-Paul Gaultier (left) and supermodel Bar Refaeli during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

North Macedonia's Tamara Todevska performs the song 'Proud' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 last night

North Macedonia's Tamara Todevska performs the song 'Proud' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 last night 

Slovenia's Zala Kralj and Gasper Santl perform the song 'Sebi' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 in Tel Aviv last night

Slovenia's Zala Kralj and Gasper Santl perform the song 'Sebi' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 in Tel Aviv last night 

Luca Hanni of Switzerland performs the song 'She Got Me" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Luca Hanni of Switzerland performs the song 'She Got Me' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Hosts Assi Azar, Lucy Ayoub, Bar Refaeli and Erez Tall on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv

Hosts Assi Azar, Lucy Ayoub, Bar Refaeli and Erez Tall on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv

Australia's Kate Miller-Heidke performs the song "Zero Gravity" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Australia's Kate Miller-Heidke performs the song 'Zero Gravity' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Participant Sergey Lazarev of Russia performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night

Participant Sergey Lazarev of Russia performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night 

San Marino's Serhat performs the song "Say Na Na Na" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019

San Marino's Serhat performs the song 'Say Na Na Na' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019

Denmark's Leonora performs the song "Love is Forever" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

Denmark's Leonora performs the song 'Love is Forever' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

Duncan Laurence of the Netherlands performs the song "Arcade" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv

Duncan Laurence of the Netherlands performs the song 'Arcade' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel

Greece's Katerine Duska performs the song "Better Love" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019

Greece's Katerine Duska performs the song 'Better Love' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019

Zala Kralj and Gasper Santl of Slovenia perform the song "Sebi" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019.
Sweden were followed by Slovenia with Zala Kralj & Gašper Šantl singing Sebi

Zala Kralj and Gasper Santl of Slovenia perform the song 'Sebi' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Denmark's Leonora delivered a solid rendition of Love Is Forever, a song reminiscent of the music of Lily Allen, replete with plucked strings and tinkling bells.

San Marino's Serhat then performed the song 'Say Na Na Na' - followed by Tamara Todevska for North Macedonia who sang 'Proud'.

Swedish entrant John Lundvik's gospel-tinged pop song Too Late For Love secured screams from the audience. Lundvik is also behind Bigger Than Us, the song UK entrant Michael Rice performed later on.

Sweden were followed by Slovenia with Zala Kralj & Gašper Šantl singing Sebi, and Cyprus' Tamta singing Replay. Cyprus came second with Fuego by Eleni Foureira last year. The ultimate winner - The Netherlands' Duncan Laurence - then took to the stage with the piano ballad Arcade.

Nevena Bozovic of Serbia performs the song 'Kruna' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night

Nevena Bozovic of Serbia performs the song 'Kruna' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night 

Katerine Duska of Greece performs the song 'Better Love' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night

Katerine Duska of Greece performs the song 'Better Love' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night 

Norway's KEiiNO perform the song "Spirit in the Sky" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Norway's KEiiNO perform the song 'Spirit in the Sky' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Italy's Mahmood performs the song 'Soldi' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 in Tel Aviv last night

Italy's Mahmood performs the song 'Soldi' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 in Tel Aviv last night 

Kobi Marimi of Israel performs the song "Home" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Kobi Marimi of Israel performs the song 'Home' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Slovenia's Zala Kralj and Gasper Santl perform the song 'Sebi' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Slovenia's Zala Kralj and Gasper Santl perform the song 'Sebi' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Greece's Katerine Duska performs the song "Better Love" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019

Greece's Katerine Duska performs the song 'Better Love' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019

The first half of the evening was brought to a close by Greece, with Katerine Duska singing Better Love. 

Israel's Kobi Marimi was the first act of the second half. He delivered an emotive rendition of the classically-influenced song Home to a receptive crowd. Israeli flags could be seen across the audience as Marimi sung on home soil, making his way to the tip of the catwalk to perform from the crowd.

Next up was Norway, with Keiino singing the uplifting duet Spirit In The Sky. Britain's Michael Rice performed 16th, singing 'Bigger Than Us'. His performance received a warm reaction from UK fans.

Presenter Rylan Clark-Neal tweeted 'he was amazing', while former Eurovision winner Cheryl Baker posted: 'Proud of ya, @MichaelRiceOff !!! You were effing fabulous!'   

Jayde Adams, a comedian who co-hosts a BBC Eurovision podcast with Scott Mills, tweeted: 'I'm sat with Michael's Nan and Mum and we're all in tears of joy! YES MICHAEL!!!!!!! You've done the UK proud!!!!'

Michael Rice of Great Britain performs the song 'Bigger Than Us' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv

Michael Rice of Great Britain performs the song 'Bigger Than Us' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv

Contestant Bilal Hassani (left) of France performs 'Roi' during the Grand Final of the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest

Contestant Bilal Hassani (left) of France performs 'Roi' during the Grand Final of the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest

Bilal Hassani of France, right, performs the song "Roi" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Bilal Hassani of France, right, performs the song 'Roi' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Switzerland's Luca Hanni performs the song "She Got Me" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

Switzerland's Luca Hanni performs the song 'She Got Me' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

Mahmood of Italy performs the song "Soldi" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv
Participant Nevena Božović of Serbia performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv

Mahmood of Italy (left) and Nevena Božović of Serbia perform during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Italy's Mahmood performs the song "Soldi" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Italy's Mahmood performs the song 'Soldi' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Katerine Duska representing Greece, performs live on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

Katerine Duska representing Greece, performs live on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

Ireland's Sarah McTernan, who was knocked out in the semi-final, posted a picture on Instagram of herself with Michael Rice. She wrote: 'Supporting my main man tonight love you loads!!! @itsmichaelrice- I please pick up your phones and vote!!!! He deserves the world. or download the app and vote!!'  

Iceland's controversial steampunk band Hatari - performing 17th - concluded their live performance without incident.

The band had drawn attention in Israel by initially vowing to stay out, saying it would be 'absurd' to participate in Israel because of its policies toward the Palestinians. 

Later, they vowed to use the Eurovision spotlight to expose the 'face of the occupation.' But at a press conference after the semifinal, Hatari offered a purely positive message. 'We need to unite and remember to love,' it said, in the wake of 'hate that's on the rise in Europe.'

In this evening's final they belted out their grinding metal rock to cheers from the audience. 

Michael Rice of Great Britain performs the song "Bigger Than Us" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019.

Michael Rice of Great Britain performs the song 'Bigger Than Us' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019.

Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song "Truth" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18,

Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song 'Truth' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18,

Serbia's Nevena Bozovic performs the song "Kruna" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv

Serbia's Nevena Bozovic performs the song 'Kruna' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv

Tom Hugo Hermansen of KEiiNO, representing Norway , performs live on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

Tom Hugo Hermansen of KEiiNO, representing Norway , performs live on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

Luca Hanni of Switzerland performs the song 'She Got Me" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18

Luca Hanni of Switzerland performs the song 'She Got Me' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18

Spain's Miki performs the song "La Venda" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019

Spain's Miki performs the song 'La Venda' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019

Luca Hanni of Switzerland performs the song 'She Got Me" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest

Luca Hanni of Switzerland performs the song 'She Got Me' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest

Contestant Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs 'Truth' during the Grand Final of the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) at the Expo Tel Aviv, in Tel Aviv

Contestant Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs 'Truth' during the Grand Final of the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) at the Expo Tel Aviv, in Tel Aviv

Next up was Estonia, with Victor Crone singing Storm, then Belarus' 16-year-old contestant Zena belted out her anthem Like It.

Azerbaijan followed, with Chingiz singing Truth before it was time for France's Bilal Hassani singing Roi in a mixture of French and English.

Italy's Mahmood began the final run of five acts with a rendition of his song Soldi. The singer-songwriter has suffered a reported throat infection this week but delivered a vocally competent performance to raucous cheers from the crowd. 

Serbia's Nevena Bozovic followed with Kruna, which translates as The Crown, a soulful ballad which drew a positive response from the crowd.

Former winner of the Eurovision Song Contest, Austria's Conchita Wurst performs during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
Former winner of the Eurovision Song Contest, Austria's Conchita Wurst performs during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Former winner of the Eurovision Song Contest, Austria's Conchita Wurst performs during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

After came Australia's Kate Miller-Heidke, whose rendition of Zero Gravity, a song about her experience of postnatal depression, saw her flying through the air atop a pole, and was received with a roar.

Last came Spain's Miki, who offered a vivid counterpoint to Miller-Heidke's musical theatre-inspired performance with an energetic rendition of the poppy La Venda. 

While the voting process got underway, four former Eurovision contestants sang a medley of each other's songs.

Austria's Conchita Wurst, who won in 2014 with Rise Like A Phoenix, sang Mans Zelmerlow's Heroes, which won the Swede the 2015 event. 

Zelmerlow then performed Fuego, which earned Greece's Eleni Foureira second place behind Netta's Toy in 2018.

Foureira then took on Verka Serduchka's Dancing Lasha Tumbai, which won the eccentric Ukrainian character actor the contest in 2007. Finally, Serduchka sang Netta's Toy, which won Israel the right to host the event during last year's contest in Lisbon, Portugal.

Two semi-finals, numerous dress rehearsals and a week of press and audience events have led to this point - and it hasn't been without controversy. 

Michael Rice of Great Britain performs the song "Bigger Than Us" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Michael Rice of Great Britain performs the song 'Bigger Than Us' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Serbia's Nevena Bozovic performs the song "Kruna" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Serbia's Nevena Bozovic performs the song 'Kruna' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Participants Lake Malawi of Czech Republic perform during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest

Participants Lake Malawi of Czech Republic perform during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest

Leonora of Denmark performs the song "Love Is Forever" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18

Leonora of Denmark performs the song 'Love Is Forever' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18

Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song "Truth" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song 'Truth' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Jonida Maliqi of Albania performs the song 'Ktheju tokes', a dramatic and slow-paced track with lyrics referencing the Kosovo War

Jonida Maliqi of Albania performs the song 'Ktheju tokes', a dramatic and slow-paced track with lyrics referencing the Kosovo War

Jonida Maliqi of Albania performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv

Jonida Maliqi of Albania performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv

Contestants Lake Malawi of Czech Republic perform 'Friend of a Friend' during the Grand Final of the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest

Contestants Lake Malawi of Czech Republic perform 'Friend of a Friend' during the Grand Final of the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest

Germany's S!sters perform the song "Sister" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019

Germany's S!sters perform the song 'Sister' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019

Sisters of Germany perform during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Sisters of Germany perform during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Sergey Lazarev of Russia performs the song 'Scream' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest
Lazarev competed for Russia in 2016 when he finished third with the song You Are The Only One

Sergey Lazarev of Russia performs the song 'Scream' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 201

John Lundvik of Sweden performs the song "Too Late For Love" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel

John Lundvik of Sweden performs the song 'Too Late For Love' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel

Germany's S!sters perform the song "Sister" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

Germany's S!sters perform the song 'Sister' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18

Icelandic 'bondage band' Hatari defied Eurovision bosses with a shock political song predicting the 'collapse of the continent'. 

The controversial troupe, who describe themselves as a techno-BDSM-punk fusion, anti-capitalist group, hope their song will promote 'peace and love'. And warn that if we do not pursue it, 'hate will indeed prevail'. 

And, in a populism warning, have stressed in the lyrics of their song that 'debauchery unconstrained' will lead to moral bankruptcy and the collapse of Europe.

The group has even come close to expulsion from the contest due to their outspoken views on Israel - having spoken of witnessing apartheid after travelling to the country.

Serhat representing San Marino, arrives on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv

Serhat representing San Marino, arrives on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Expo Tel Aviv

Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song "Truth" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song 'Truth' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

San Marino's Serhat performs the song "Say Na Na Na" during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

San Marino's Serhat performs the song 'Say Na Na Na' during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city

Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song "Truth" during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song 'Truth' during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019

Their song flies in the face of competition rules, which stress it is a non-political event. And stipulate that 'no organization, institution, political cause or other cause' should be promoted. 

Matthias Tryggvi Haraldsson, 25, the lead singer of Hatari - or 'Haters' - said of their song: 'Hate Will Prevail is a reflection on power and powerlessness, hope and hopelessness.

'It's a warning about what will happen if we don't love each other, if we give up on peace and unity, because then hate will indeed prevail. And we feel these are relevant themes to the context of this year's contest.'

Their performance has even stirred up controversy in their home country, which was the first in western Europe to recognise Palestine as a state, in 2011. A petition urging them to boycott the completion was signed by at least 20,000 people. 

But Eurovision bosses have tried to keep them on track, with Haraldsson revealing they have 'made it very clear that we have stepped over the line and reached the limit of their tolerance.'

He promised to stay clear of 'buzzwords' like apartheid that prick the ears of producers and will use their performance as 'a platform to uphold a critical discussion about the context of this year's contest'. 

The controversy came amidst security concerns surrounding the competition, after the Israeli national broadcaster's webcast of the semi-final in Tel Aviv was hacked with images of explosions over the city. 

And earlier this week it was revealed how Israel had reportedly deployed its Iron Dome defence system ahead of the song competition. Despite last Monday, Israel and Hamas agreeing to a ceasefire following a ferocious missile exchange which saw nearly 700 rockets fired across the border.

Despite the ongoing controversy, Michael Rice, a former X Factor contestant, had hoped to bring the Eurovision crown back to Britain for the first time in 22 years.  

Despite the even bigger than usual media craze around the competition, he insisted: 'I've got my game face on, and I'm ready to go out and give the best performance.' 

And speaking to the BBC, he added: 'We aren't a popular country in Europe. Everything is against us. But if we sent a decent song we'd do okay.'    

The Eurovision song contest is set to get underway in Tel Aviv later this week under controversial circumstances

The Eurovision song contest is set to get underway in Tel Aviv later this week under controversial circumstances

Rabin Square in the centre of Tel Aviv with a stage set up ahead of the song contest later this week

Rabin Square in the centre of Tel Aviv with a stage set up ahead of the song contest later this week

Earlier this week it was revealed how Israel had reportedly deployed its Iron Dome defence system (pictured) ahead of the song competition

Earlier this week it was revealed how Israel had reportedly deployed its Iron Dome defence system (pictured) ahead of the song competition

Rice performed for the expert jury panels on Friday night during a non-televised dress rehearsal of the grand final.

He, unlike the Icelandic entry, insisted that: 'We should be focusing on the music and getting the right song instead of droning on about stuff like that.' 

The 'stuff' the 21-year-old from Hartlepool was referring to is politics. He added that he's 'sick of being asked about Brexit, constantly all the time'. 

'I'm just a singer; I've never even thought about politics,' he added. 

Rice got a by-pass to Saturday's final, being the face of one of the 'big five' nations but faces stiff competition in the firm favourites, the Netherlands.  

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