The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and disqualified Dutch contestant Joost Klein have both issued statements following the closure of a police investigation into a backstage incident at the Eurovision Song Contest final.
While Swedish authorities dropped the investigation due to insufficient evidence, the EBU maintains its decision to disqualify Klein, citing a breach of contest rules. Jean Philip De Tender, EBU Deputy Director General and Director of Media, emphasized that the disqualification was based on an internal investigation and adhered to Eurovision rules and procedures. The Swedish police investigation focused on potential criminal activity, not Klein’s alleged inappropriate behavior, which was the basis for the EBU’s action.
Klein, on the other hand, took to Instagram to express his frustration with the situation, emphasizing that he was cleared of any wrongdoing. He described the past few months as “terrible” and criticized the length of time it took to reach a conclusion, stating he felt insecure while knowing he was innocent. He also accused companies of prioritizing money and using him as a shield.
The Swedish prosecutor, citing a lack of evidence, concluded that Klein’s actions had not caused serious fear or been intentional. His actions were described as “a movement that hit the woman’s film camera” during a fast-paced event, with varying witness accounts.
Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS welcomed the Swedish decision, deeming the disqualification “unnecessary and disproportionate” and plans to meet with the EBU to discuss the matter.
Despite the criminal charges being dropped, Klein’s Eurovision journey ended abruptly. He was disqualified from the Grand Final in Malmö after allegations of inappropriate behavior toward a Eurovision photographer backstage. This marked the first disqualification of a contestant after reaching the Grand Final in the competition’s 68-year history.
Two months ago, Klein began using the tag line, “Eurovision 2025” on his social media, leading to speculation he might attempt to participate again next year in Switzerland.
