The annual pop song contest is a competition like no other, with countries from Europe — and beyond — vying for fan votes amid a sea of flags. The maple leaf has been largely absent from that sea despite Canadians singing for other countries.

There has already been triumph and tears, singing onstage and in the streets, and a touch of political division, as the 69t

Yuval Raphael previously said she was expecting boos during her performance, as Israel's presence at the Basel contest has drawn controversy amid the war in Gaza.