The Global Song Contest 09

## Voting

### Voting system

Each country awards a set of points in the final of 12, 10, 8–1 points to ten songs + Televoting (50/50)

### Winning song

 **Spain**
**"Los Ángeles"** by *Aitana*

**The 9th edition of The Global Song Contest** is currently taking place in **Istanbul, Türkiye** following the win of the country thanks to Selin with the song *"Lovers Hurricane"*. Organised by **TRT**, the contest was held at the **Ülker Sports Arena.** The contest is hosted by Serhat, Hande Yener & Hadise. A record of 72 countries competed in this edition. The Big 6 was composed of **Türkiye, Argentina, Colombia, Denmark, Guam & South Korea.**

Due to the record number of participating countries, **a new pre-qualification stage was introduced: the heats**. In each heat, **8 countries** (or nine for the first two) competed for **just 5** (or 6 for the first two) **places** in the semi-finals. At the end of this stage, **only 42 countries remained** in the running.

**Spain** won this edition thanks to Aitana with her song "Los Ángeles" that earned respectively 258 points from the juries and 337 points from the televoting.

## Location

Istanbul, the transcontinental metropolis straddling Europe and Asia, served as a captivating host for The Global Song Contest 09. The city's rich history, marked by the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, is reflected in its architectural marvels. The iconic Hagia Sophia, once a cathedral and later a mosque, stands as a symbol of Istanbul's diverse cultural heritage. The city's skyline is adorned with the stunning Blue Mosque and the historic Topkapi Palace, offering a journey through time as visitors traverse the bustling streets.

The Ülker Sports Arena itself is situated in the heart of the city, contributing to Istanbul's reputation as a dynamic cultural and sports destination. The arena has not only hosted international music events but also serves as a home to various sports competitions and other entertainment spectacles. Its modern design and versatile facilities make it a fitting venue for a wide range of events, capturing the spirit of Istanbul's cosmopolitan and multifaceted identity.

Istanbul's cultural scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with traditional Turkish arts, contemporary expressions, and a dynamic music scene. The city's diverse neighborhoods offer a mix of experiences, from the historic Grand Bazaar with its bustling markets to the trendy districts showcasing modern art galleries, chic cafes, and vibrant street life. Istanbul's culinary offerings are a feast for the senses, with traditional Turkish delights like kebabs, baklava, and Turkish tea, all contributing to the city's gastronomic allure.

The strategic location of Istanbul, straddling the Bosphorus Strait, not only connects Europe and Asia but also infuses the city with a unique energy and cultural fusion. The vibrant street life, the call to prayer echoing from minarets, and the juxtaposition of ancient and modern elements create an ambiance that is both timeless and contemporary.

The selection of Istanbul and the Ülker Sports Arena as the hosts for The Global Song Contest 09 celebrated the city's dynamic spirit, cultural richness, and its role as a bridge between continents. The combination of the arena's world-class facilities and Istanbul's mesmerizing blend of history and modernity created an unforgettable setting for the international music competition, reinforcing Istanbul's status as a global metropolis that seamlessly intertwines tradition and innovation.