Bulgaria wins the 70th Eurovision Song Contest

Bulgaria won the 70th Eurovision Song Contest held in Vienna, marking the country's first victory in the history of the competition. The 27-year-old artist Dara secured the win with her song "Bangaranga," which earned 516 points, achieving a record-breaking lead of 173 points over the runner-up. The entry, composed by Anne Judith Stokke Wik, Darina Yotova, Dimitris Kontopoulos, and Monoir, dominated both the jury and televoting categories. Dara explained that the song was inspired by the ancient Bulgarian "Kukeri" ritual, symbolizing the victory of love over fear. Israel placed second with Noam Bettan's "Michelle," while Romania finished third with Alexandra Căpitănescu's "Choke Me." Greece's representative, Acylas, placed 10th with the song "Ferto." Following her return to Sofia, the singer was welcomed by crowds and noted that she plans to celebrate the win and her first wedding anniversary privately. Prime Minister Rumen Radev congratulated the artist, highlighting the cultural significance of the achievement.