Finland’s Eurovision duo on enjoying the spotlight as competition favourites

Finland’s Eurovision Song Contest entry Liekinheitin is among the top favourites to win Saturday’s final, according to a report by Finnish public broadcaster Yle. Artists Linda Lampenius and Pete Parkkonen, representing Finland in Vienna, say the intense media attention still feels surreal.

The pair have spent two weeks in Austria preparing for the competition. After securing their place in the final during Tuesday’s semi-final, their song has been tipped by many as a potential winner.

“This week, we’ve finally been able to do what we came here for—perform,” Parkkonen told reporters. Both artists praised their delegation and support team, with Lampenius calling the experience “as good as it gets.”

Asked about their strategy to win, Lampenius responded simply: “We’re being ourselves.” Parkkonen added, “We’re enjoying this and giving it our all.”

The Eurovision final, held in Vienna on 16 May, will see professional juries from each participating country award points to their top ten performances, with the highest score being 12. Viewers also vote, following the same rules, though they cannot vote for their own country.

Lampenius acknowledged the unpredictability of the juries: “We can’t do more than what we’re already doing.” Parkkonen emphasised the rarity of their current position: “We’re soaking it all in—having 20 journalists here filming us isn’t something to take for granted. We’re enjoying this moment while people are interested in us and our music.”

When Parkkonen joked about also representing Sweden—where he has roots—the violinist quickly corrected him: “No, no! When I’m on that stage competing, there’s no Sweden in me, even though I’m happy they’re cheering us on.”

The Eurovision Song Contest finals will air on Yle TV1 and Yle Areena, with additional coverage available on the Yle app and website.