Eurovision??

[KRUSTY]

Not sure which category this question should be in so forgive me if you think it belongs in another? With the Eurovision Song contest coming up this weekend - yes I'm aware that it's not a real contest but just a Who's Who for countries to show who's fallen out with who - I've got to ask, because it's been bugging me for years and never known who to ask, how Israel qualifies to be 'European'? I mean Turkey isn't officially European but Israel? I have no axe to grind but I'd simply like to know?

[andy-hughes]

Countries don't qualify by being in Europe, they qualify by receiving TV signals from the Eurovision network of TV companies - which is why countries quite a way from the European mainland - Israel being a perfect example - are elligible to enter the Contest.

[libertie]

I've wondered about that too...now we both know! Think it's quite funny that after wondering about which category to post in you decided against music!! :o)

[ugly_bob]

Although, Israeli teams also qualify to play in European club football tournaments. Maccabi Haifa played an English team in UEFA cup a couple of years ago.

I know this has got nowt to do with the question, but it's still puzzling.

[annavc]

Israel is also a member of the European Management Association - go figure!

[littleoldme]

I remember one year (and I believe it was only one year), Morocco entered!