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Finland favorite to win Eurovision with 'Liekinheitin'

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Key Points
  • Finland is the overwhelming favorite to win Eurovision with 'Liekinheitin', with a 31% win probability.
  • The song blends classical violin and techno, reminiscent of Vanessa-Mae, and means 'flamethrower' in Finnish.
  • Finland has only won Eurovision once before, 20 years ago with Lordi, and competes in the first semifinal on May 12.

Finland has been the overwhelming pre-favorite to win Eurovision for a longer time, with bookmakers and experts consistently ranking their entry highly. On the betting lists compiled by the Eurovision World site, Finland's probability of winning is calculated at 31 percent, while France, which is second on the lists, has a corresponding figure of 11 percent. The duo is a favorite tip even before the Finnish selection takes place on Saturday, indicating strong early momentum.

Finland has only won once, with Lordi, and that was exactly 20 years ago, making a potential victory this year particularly significant. Finland competes in the first semifinal on May 12, with the final on Saturday, May 16. Eurovision is in Austria, Vienna this year, adding to the event's excitement.

Finland has only won once, with Lordi, and that was exactly 20 years ago. So it would be so awesome!

Linda Lampenius, Finnish-Swedish violinist

'Liekinheitin' means flamethrower in Finnish. According to Lampenius, the song is about falling in love, where she herself is the 'flamethrower' that makes people become obsessed, blending personal themes with powerful imagery. When classical violin meets techno music, a sound arises that brings to mind Vanessa-Mae, creating a unique musical fusion.

The duo performed on Saturday evening at the Eurovision in Concert event, which is one of the so-called pre-party concerts ahead of Eurovision, showcasing their act to an international audience. Lampenius has shared a video from the performance on Instagram where the audience's strong reactions can be heard, highlighting positive early feedback. She and Pete Parkkonen have not yet had any contact with last year's Finnish-Swedish entry contributors KAJ, suggesting they are focusing on their own preparations.

Well, it sounds very strange.

Linda Lampenius, Finnish-Swedish violinist

But when they come too close, I become ice cold and shut off.

Linda Lampenius, Finnish-Swedish violinist

We have worked extremely hard and done all the preparations one can. We will give such a hell of a live show.

Linda Lampenius, Finnish-Swedish violinist

I'm sorry but I have to say that it is higher quality than in Swedish. Sorry. Well, Finnish Mello has pulled itself up something completely incredible.

Linda Lampenius, Finnish-Swedish violinist

Our number is not built on humor in the same way as theirs. We have made it like a film.

Linda Lampenius, Finnish-Swedish violinist

KAJ did incredibly well last year, and it is inspiring to see that type of success. If we are chosen to represent Finland, maybe we will contact them for advice.

Pete Parkkonen, Pop star

Linda motherfucking Lampenius!

Pete Parkkonen, Pop star
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Finland favorite to win Eurovision with 'Liekinheitin' | Reed News