Olimpiysky Arena, Moscow, Eurovision Song Contest 2009 Semi-Final (2)
For the second time in the history of the Eurovision Song Contest, two Semi-Finals will be held to decide which 25 countries will be represented in the Final. The second Semi-Final will take place on Thursday, 14th of May.
The voting during the show
Citizens of each participating country vote by telephone and SMS. Big Four countries France and Spain, and Host Country Russia will also vote in this Semi-Final (decided by draw). Spain was originally to vote in the first Semi Final, but requested this to be changed for scheduling purposes. The reference group approved this request.
Each country's 10 favourites are awarded 1 to 8, 10 and 12 points based on the number of votes. The top-9 of the tele-voting qualifies for the Final. The highest ranked entry of the back-up jury that has not qualified for the Final in the tele-voting also qualifies for the Final. The 10 qualified countries will be presented in randomly drawn order at the end of the show. The complete results of the tele-voting will not be announced until after the Final, to keep the tension high.
