Loreen cemented her place in Swedish hearts when she won Eurovision with her hit Euphoria in 2012. Now, the singer has made the competition's history books as the second person – and first-ever woman – to take the top place twice
It's known for its eccentric, rousing and camp showcase of international talent and last night's grand final display was no exception, as the spectacle of Eurovision came to life in Liverpool. Due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, being last year's winning country, the UK city was instead invited to host the 2023 competition on the behalf of Ukrainians. Fittingly, Ukrainian rock star Julia Sanina, British actor Hannah Waddingham, Irish comedian Graham Norton and British singer and TV star Alesha Dixon were this year's presenters.
Sailing through Sweden's Melodifestivalen and the Eurovision heats, Sweden delighted in having Loreen once again as its representative contestant at the grand final. Following her unforgettable win 11 years ago with Eurphoria, Loreen delivered a rendition of powerful anthem Tattoo – which, after being released as a single in February of this year, debuted as number one on the Swedish singles chart and has gone on to chart in 14 other countries, streamed over 100 million times. From the Nordics, Finland and Norway also made it through to the grand final, with rapper and singer Käärijä and singer-songwriter's Alessandra as respective representatives.
Related: Swedish pop wonder Loreen on life beyond Euphoria, buying a marina and finding her voice again
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The first of the Nordic cohort to perform, ninth in the competition's running order, Loreen – barefoot in a figure-hugging costume, with her signature long braids, a statement, claw-like metallic manicure and subtle henna markings – had the world instantly mesmerised by her performance, as she rose slowly from underneath levitating set. Finland's Käärijä took the stage in neon and spikes for his infectious, fast-paced Cha Cha Cha performance, while Norwegian-Italian singer-songwriter Alessandra followed in a suitably regal costume for her catchy, operatic ballad Queen of Kings.
While it could have appeared to have been an even playing field for the talented contestants throughout the performances, it became clear as soon as the announcement of the international jury's points began that Loreen's powerful display that had won the world over. The Swede finished far ahead on the juror's scoreboard, but as the public's votes rolled in – including, for the first time, votes from non-participating countries – rankings began to dramatically shift, leaving Finland and Israel in a tense trio at the top. However, Loreen had scored more than the 187 points necessary (243 in fact) from the public to easily claim the Eurovision crown.
Taking the stage to accept the award from Norton, Loreen said, "this is so overwhelming. I’m so happy and I’m so thankful." Later, in a message shared directly with fans on Instagram, she went on: "I loved every minute performing this song for you and it was all for you - you already know that. You guys are wonderful."
The win secures Sweden's position as host for next year's Eurovision, which as fate would have it, will make the 50th anniversary of Abba's historic Waterloo win in 1974.