Eurovision Insight Podcast… Inside The Model: Finland Flies into First

Eurovision Insight Podcast… Inside The Model: Finland Flies into First

From ESC Insight: Eurovision Song Contest Podcast by Ewan Spence

March 23, 2026 · 18 min · Episode 1063

About this episode

James Stephenson analyzes the latest updates in the Eurovision Song Contest, focusing on Finland's rise in the standings and the methodology behind his prediction tool, The Model.

James Stephenson presents a brand-new podcast that analyses who might win the Eurovision Song Contest in a brand-new way. With the help of The Model, James's prediction tool for the Contest, he'll take a look at how the race to Vienna is shaping up with weekly updates on the favourites, unique analysis of this year's songs, and special guest appearances. On this episode, James analyses the latest update, which sees Finland and 'Liekinheitin' rise to the top of the standings. He'll explain the change in methodology that has created the brand-new look to The Model, how each song chasing Finland down has different musical characteristics that may help it succeed, and answers questions from ESC Insight's Samantha Ross on what The Model does - and doesn't - take into account in its rankings. You can listen to Inside The Model on the ESC Insight podcast now, with weekly episodes every Monday that pull you deeper into the data.

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