Ukraine's five almost-winners of the Eurovision Song Contest

Article by Joel Grace

Ukraine has celebrated some unforgettable victories during the country’s relatively short involvement with the Eurovision Song Contest.

Since 2003, Ukraine has won the contest an impressive three times: in 2004 with Wild Dances by Ruslana, in 2016 with 1944 by Jamala, and in 2022 with Stefania by Kalush Orchestra.

With August 24 being Ukraine’s Independence Day, instead of just celebrating their victories we thought we’d look at the times Ukraine almost won Eurovision but didn’t quite get across the line.

1. Verka Serduchka's Iconic Second Place for Dancing Lasha Tumbai in 2007

34 points from victory (Winner: Serbia’s Marija Šerifović with Molitva on 268 points)

Instant classic! Ukraine delivered one of the most memorable moments in Eurovision history when they sent the high-energy artist Verka Serduchka with the song Dancing Lasha Tumbai.

The eccentric and flamboyant performance mesmerised viewers not just for its delightful campiness but also for its catchy tune. Verka Serduchka's second-place finish was Ukraine's highest at the time and remains a pinnacle in Eurovision's history for its pure entertainment value.

2. Ani Lorak's powerful second place for Shady Lady in 2008

43 points from victory (Winner: Russia’s Dima Bilan with Believe on 272 points)

Time for a disco banger! In 2008, Ukraine continued to dazzle on the Eurovision stage with Ani Lorak's Shady Lady.

Lorak’s powerful vocal performance was backed by impressive choreography and a catchy tune that won the hearts of audiences across Europe.

The song's infectious beats and Lorak's sparkling smile earned Ukraine another second-place finish. Shady Lady remains one of Ukraine's most popular entries, showcasing their knack for delivering Eurovision earworms that get stuck in your head.

3. Mika Newton’s memorable fourth place for Angel in 2011

63 points from victory (Winner: Azerbaijan’s Ell & Nikki with Running Scared on 221 points)

Talk about stunning visuals! In 2011, Mika Newton delivered a heartfelt performance with her ballad Angel. Sure it was a fantastic song, but this entry is best remembered for its captivating staging.

Viewers will remember that Newton's powerful vocal performance was punctuated by the impressive skills of Ukraine’s Got Talent winner, sand animation artist Kseniya Simonova.

Simonova’s ability to transform sand into glorious pieces of art enhanced by a lightbox enveloped both the stage and screen, enhancing the song’s poignant message. Despite its favourable reception, Angel finished in fourth place, narrowly missing out on a podium finish. 

4. Zlata Ognevich's enchanting third place for Gravity in 2013

68 points from victory (Winner: Denmark’s Emmelie de Forest with Only Teardrops on 281 points)

In 2013, Ukraine delivered pop balladry at its best with Zlata Ognevich ethereal masterpiece, Gravity. Combining Ognevich's lush vocals with a visually simple but commanding stage presentation, Gravity struck a chord with both the audience and the juries.

Although the performance finished sixth with the jury, a second-place televote catapulted Ukraine into third place overall on the leaderboard. The impressive performance solidified Ukraine’s reputation as a Eurovision powerhouse in only its 11th year of participation.

5. Alyona Alyona and Jerry Heil's stirring entry for Teresa & Maria in 2024

139 points from victory (Winner: Switzerland’s Nemo with The Code on 591 points)

This year, Ukraine again stunned the crowd at Eurovision with Alonya Alonya and Jerry Heil's breathtaking performance of Teresa & Maria.

The duo brought a fresh and contemporary vibe to the competition, masterfully blending rap elements with Ukrainian pop balladry. Their dynamic staging was a highlight of the 2024 contest, with Jerry Heil climbing a rock incline headfirst into a wind machine, making for a spectacular visual effect.

Audiences and juries alike also loved the commanding stage presence of Alyona Alyona's sharp-flowing rap style. Teresa & Maria continued Ukraine’s legacy of delivering memorable and culturally rich performances on the Eurovision stage.

With such an impressive record of Eurovision winners and almost-victories, we’re crossing our fingers that Ukraine can uphold their history of sending quality pop moments in 2025!

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