Ukrainian broadcaster NTU has confirmed that the preliminary dates were moved because of the Day of Remembrance for the victims of the Crimean Tatar genocide on the 18th of May. However, the proposed dates of the 9th, 11th and 13th of May are a problem for the EBU.
On these dates, Eurovision would clash with some major sport events, causing the EBU to most likely lose a lot of viewers. During the first semi final, the Champions League semi final will take place, with the biggest and most supported teams of the continent still in action. During the second semi final, the Europa League tournament will also have their matches at the same time.
Chances are, Eurovision 2017 will also not take place on these dates, as the EBU has always stated that they don’t want the contest to clash with other major events. The most likely solution seems to be the week of the 23rd, 25th and 27th of May 2017. It would also give Ukraine some more time to prepare for the contest, as there are still many issues when it comes to infrastructure and a proper venue for each possible host city.
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