Sofia: The organization of the Eurovision Song Contest, which Bulgaria will host in 2027, is expected to cost between EUR 20 million and EUR 30 million, with good returns on expenditure, Deputy Prime Minister Ivo Hristov said on the Bulgarian National Television's (BNT) morning programme on Thursday. Hristov heads the preparations for the event, the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) reported.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the country will host the contest after Bulgarian singer Dara won the 2026 edition in Vienna with the party anthem "Bangaranga". Hristov mentioned that there will be a dedicated Eurovision budget line. The hosting of the event will not be entirely state-funded, as there will also be sponsorship participation from the European Broadcasting Union, the main organizer of the song contest, as well as national sponsors. A strong return on investment is expected, with already increased interest in hotel bookings in Sofia for next year, he added.

Hristov emphasized that winning the song contest opens exceptional opportunities for Bulgaria to brand itself as a destination, highlighting the country's unique culture, natural features, and significant talent. He expressed gratitude towards two BNT leadership teams, acknowledging the efforts of former director general Emil Koshlu??v and current Director General Milena Milotinova, for their strategic decisions leading to Bulgaria's triumph. He also praised Dara's talent and energy, which helped overcome various influences on the Eurovision vote.

The Deputy Prime Minister stated that the decision on which Bulgarian city will host the Eurovision Song Contest is still pending. BNT is set to organize the first round for all interested cities. Sofia, Plovdiv, Burgas, and Varna have so far expressed interest in hosting the contest.