How Simulations Work
A step‑by‑step explanation of how Eurovision simulations are structured, scored and presented.
1. The Structure of a Simulation
Most Eurovision simulations follow the same structure as the real contest.
This includes:
• Semi‑finals
• Qualification reveals
• Jury voting
• Televoting
• Grand Final scoring
The goal is to recreate the Eurovision experience as accurately as possible.
2. Assigning Countries to Semi‑Finals
Simulations usually begin by placing countries into two semi‑finals.
This can be done using:
• The real Allocation Draw
• A custom draw
• Random assignment
Some simulations also recreate the “first half / second half” running order allocation.
3. Creating the Running Order
The running order can be:
• Based on the real contest
• Randomly generated
• Designed by the simulation creator to improve flow
A good running order helps the simulation feel more like a real Eurovision show.
4. Jury Voting
Jury voting in simulations usually follows the official Eurovision system:
• Each “jury” ranks all songs
• Rankings are converted into 1–8, 10 and 12 points
• Points are displayed using Jury Cards
Juries can be:
• Real fans submitting rankings
• A panel of selected voters
• Randomized rankings
• Weighted systems (e.g., genre‑based, region‑based)
5. Televoting
The televote is usually simulated using one of the following methods:
• Fan votes (most common)
• Online polls
• Randomized scoring
• Weighted scoring (e.g., popularity, streaming data)
The televote is then converted into a single aggregated score for each country,
just like the real Eurovision system used since 2016.
6. Semi‑Final Qualification
Simulations typically follow the official 2026 rules:
• 50% jury + 50% televote
• Combined ranking determines the top 10
Many simulations also recreate the 2026 reveal format:
• 3 countries shown at a time
• Only 1 qualifies
• Final 10th qualifier revealed from all remaining countries
This adds suspense and authenticity.
7. Grand Final Scoring
The Grand Final follows the same structure as the real contest:
• Jury points announced country by country
• Televote totals revealed from lowest to highest
The combination of both determines the winner of the simulation.
8. Visual Presentation
Most simulations use visual elements to enhance the experience:
• Jury Cards
• Televote Cards
• Qualification reveal graphics
• Scoreboards
ESC Card Generator is commonly used to create these visuals because it replicates the official Eurovision style.
9. Publishing the Simulation
Simulations are often shared on:
• YouTube
• TikTok
• Twitter/X
• Discord servers
• Fan forums
Many creators premiere their simulations as if they were real Eurovision broadcasts.