18 Solna

Welcome to Solna
"The Art of the Subway"

Welcome to Solna, a captivating destination nestled in the heart of Sweden, where modernity and tradition harmoniously blend to create a memorable travel experience. This hidden gem welcomes you with open arms, offering a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage and contemporary charm. Solna's tranquil parks and green spaces are a haven for nature enthusiasts. Stroll through the lush Hagaparken, a royal park adorned with picturesque lakes, grand palaces, and charming walking trails. Witness the splendor of Ulriksdals Slott, a historic royal residence surrounded by stunning gardens. Delve into Sweden's rich history by exploring the grandiose palace of Karlberg, where captivating architecture and historic exhibitions tell tales of a bygone era. Solna's heritage is also reflected in its charming old buildings and cobblestone streets. Solna's dining scene is a gastronomic delight. Savor traditional Swedish cuisine in cozy restaurants, where herring, gravlax, and meatballs are served with flair. Coffee culture is an integral part of Swedish life, so don't miss a fika, a delightful coffee break accompanied by delicious pastries. For sports enthusiasts, Solna is home to the iconic Friends Arena, a modern stadium where you can catch thrilling football matches and world-class concerts. The stadium's rooftop tour offers panoramic views of the city. Solna's cultural offerings are diverse, with an array of art galleries and museums. Immerse yourself in contemporary art at the stunning Artipelag, an artistic haven amidst nature. Solna Centrum, a vibrant cultural hub, features a wide range of performances and exhibitions. Shopping in Solna is a treat for fashion enthusiasts. The Mall of Scandinavia, the largest shopping center in the Nordic region, boasts a wide array of boutiques, international brands, and dining options. Solna is a city of festivals and events, celebrating everything from music and food to arts and culture. Don't miss the annual Solna Street Festival, where the city's streets come alive with performances, food stalls, and a lively atmosphere. Solna warmly invites you to explore its modernity and heritage, offering a serene escape from the everyday while still providing a rich cultural experience. So, set your sights on Solna and let this Swedish city reveal its unique charms to you. Your adventure begins in Solna, where tradition and contemporary allure combine to create an unforgettable tapestry of experiences!

Host City / Solna, Sweden
Venue / Råsunda Stadium
Hosts / Ulrika Jonsson

Participating countries / 28
Debuting countries / None
Returning countries / Argentina, South Korea and United Kingdom
Withdrawing countries / Israel, Morocco and Ukraine

Debuting players / None

Returning Artists

Coco Lee / for China / placing 20th
David Fonseca / for Portugal / Global Music Champion
Evridiki / for Cyprus / placing 10th
Groovehouse / for Hungary / Bronze Medallist
Samantha Mumba / for Ireland / placing 13th
Vesna Pisarovic / for Croatia / placing 5th

The Result

Countries receiving most 12 points / France, 3
Countries giving 12 points to the winner / Croatia and Sweden
Countries receiving points from most juries / Romania and Sweden, 17
Highest placing country not scoring a top mark / Argentina in 8th place with 10 points from Denmark as highest mark
Lowest placing country scoring a top mark / Iceland in 20th place getting 12 points from Argentina

For most of the voting France and Romania took turn in leading the way, but with the very last set of votes Denmark pushed past the rest to claim their first gold medal. Romania won the silver, and France took the bronze with Sweden and Turkey rounding out the top 5.

Denmark is a founding member of Global Music and even hosted the very first edition. In their first 17 participations, Denmark has finished in the top 10 an impressive 11 times including 7 consecutive times from GM04 through GM10. However, the medals have eluded them every time, so not only is this Denmark's first gold medal; it is their first medal of any kind. Well done Denmark, Annika Askman and Mikkel!