(Vietnam Insider) – Vietnam has claimed the top prize at Russia’s revived Intervision song contest, a state-backed event promoted as a conservative, geopolitical alternative to Eurovision.
The competition, relaunched at the order of President Vladimir Putin after Russia was banned from Eurovision in 2022, emphasizes “traditional family values” and features participants from countries Moscow deems friendly. Acts from over 20 nations, including China, India, Brazil, and South Africa, performed before a global audience spanning Asia, Africa, South America, and parts of Europe.
Vietnamese singer Duc Phuc secured first place with a powerful performance based on a folktale about a king defending his country against invaders. He received a trophy and a cash prize of 30 million roubles (about $360,000). Kyrgyzstan and Qatar won second and third place, respectively.
Russia’s own contestant, nationalist pop star “Shaman” (Yaroslav Dronov), withdrew his entry in deference to the host nation. The organizers announced that Saudi Arabia will host next year’s edition.
The event drew controversy when U.S. representatives dropped out: Australian-born singer Vassy withdrew under political pressure from Canberra, while U.S.-born R&B singer Brandon Howard had already stepped aside citing family reasons.
Russian officials portrayed Intervision as a cultural alternative to the West. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov emphasized preserving “national traditions and moral values,” while taking a swipe at Eurovision’s inclusivity.
Vietnam’s victory highlights both the country’s rising cultural presence on the international stage and the symbolic weight of a contest designed to project Moscow’s influence abroad.
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Source: Vietnam Insider