Boss Yaroslav Lodygin says it would be difficult for national broadcaster UA:PBC to host Eurovision should his country win the contest.

Speaking in an exclusive interview on the latest episode of The Euro Trip podcast, the Head of Ukraine’s public television station has revealed he’d prefer not to win the upcoming edition in Turin, with a number of external factors at play.

Chatting to The Euro Trip host Rob Lilley, Mr Lodygin explained the situation.

“As a singing nation we always want to win, but considering all the budgetary restrictions we are almost in the situation as Iceland in the Eurovision film [The Story of Fire Saga].

“As executives we are praying not to win every year.”

Yaroslav Lodygin will also act as one of three jurors in this year’s Vidbir, alongside previous winner Jamala, and 2006 Ukranian entry Tina Karol. Their votes will count for 50% of the results, with the other 50% being decided by a public vote.

“The last time we won ,in 2017 it was a very big pressure on the company in terms of financing, in terms of interest from controlling bodies of the Ukrainian government, it’s always a big stress.

“2nd place would be the best for Ukraine”.

Eight acts will compete to represent Ukraine in Vidbir 2022, with the winner going on to represent the nation in Turin this May.

Ukraine have already been drawn to compete in the first half of the first semi-final, due to take place on 10th May 2022.

Image credit: EBU / Andres Putting