The IBA were unable to host the contest two years in a row, as they had already spent a considerable amount of money on the 1979 contest and feared they would go bankrupt if they tried to host again. Dutch broadcaster NOS stepped in to host the following year's contest in The Hague, but due to the eventual decided date coinciding with Yom HaZikaron (the Israeli Day of Remembrance), the reigning champions became the first and only to not return to defend their title the following year. The Israel Song Festival was held as usual, leading many to suspect that the winning song, "Pizmon Hozer" by The Brothers &amp; the Sisters, was going to represent Israel prior to their withdrawal; however, given that the Festival was organized and held after Israel had already announced their plans to withdraw, this would seem unlikely. "Hallelujah" was succeeded as winner by Ireland's Johnny Logan with "What's Another Year" and as the Israeli entry by Hakol Over Habibi with "Halayla" in 1981.