Eurovision faces budget squeeze after Israel-related departures

The Eurovision Song Contest is facing a potential budget squeeze after Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland and Slovenia said they would withdraw from next year's contest in protest at Israel's participation.

The planned boycott culminated a debate that has overshadowed the last two competitions and followed threats from all four countries to withdraw unless the organiser excluded Israel over its ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza.

The departure of Spain, one of the "big five" supporters of the competition and two of Europe's richest countries, raises the prospect of less sponsorship and viewership revenue for the extravaganza that attracts millions of viewers around the world.