1980 Eurovision Song Contest

Results of the Final of The Hague 1980

Ireland's Victory

The 1980 Eurovision Song Contest was held on April 19, 1980, in The Hague, Netherlands. Nineteen countries participated, and Ireland emerged victorious. Johnny Logan's "What's Another Year" captured the hearts of viewers and jurors alike, earning Ireland its first Eurovision win.

Monaco's Return

Monaco returned to the contest after a one-year absence. The principality had last participated in 1979, and its return was met with anticipation from fans. However, Monaco's entry, "Notre planète" performed by Doris Dragovic, failed to impress, placing 12th out of 19.

Controversy in Germany

Germany's participation in the 1980 contest was marred by controversy. The German broadcaster, HR, initially selected the song "Theater" by Katja Ebstein. However, the song's lyrics were deemed too political by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), and the broadcaster was forced to withdraw the song.

The ensuing scandal led to HR boycotting the contest for the next two years. Germany eventually returned to Eurovision in 1983, but the incident remains a blot on the country's Eurovision history.