This year\'s \'Eurovision Song Contest\' entries will not be eligible for next year\'s competition.
The 2020 show has been cancelled as a result of coronavirus and this year\'s contestants have been told that their songs will not be considered when the competition returns in 2021.
A statement from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) said: "We have been overwhelmed with the love that the Eurovision Song Contest family has shared since the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 event.
"The EBU is very aware of how much the \'Eurovision Song Contest\' will be missed this year. The contest\'s values of universality and inclusivity, and our proud tradition of celebrating diversity through music, are needed now more than ever.
"As such, the EBU and its members are currently exploring alternative programming, but not a competition, to help unite and entertain audiences around Europe during these challenging times.
"It is our intention with this programming, and on our online platforms in the coming months, to honour the songs and artists which have been chosen for the \'Eurovision Song Contest\' 2020.
"With that in mind, the Reference Group, the Song Contest\'s governing board, has decided that, in accordance with the rules of the \'Eurovision Song Contest\', this year\'s songs will not be eligible to compete when the contest returns in 2021.
"At their discretion, participating broadcasters may decide which artist(s) to send in 2021, either this year\'s representative or a new one.
"We ask for your continued patience while we work through practical implications of these ideas in the coming days and weeks."
James Newman was recently confirmed as the United Kingdom\'s representative for this year\'s \'Eurovision Song Contest\'.
The singer/songwriter, who is the brother of John Newman, will was set to perform \'My Last Breath\' at the final on May 16th.
