San Marino’s Eurovision Journey: A Tiny Nation, Big Dreams

San Marino, one of the world’s smallest countries, has been a plucky participant in the Eurovision Song Contest since 2008. Despite its limited size and resources, the microstate has consistently brought a unique flavour and ambitious spirit to the competition. While success has been elusive, San Marino’s dedication and occasional moments of brilliance have made it a beloved underdog in the Eurovision community.

Their debut in 2008 with Miodio and the song “Complice” unfortunately didn’t reach the final. After a brief hiatus, San Marino returned in 2011, kicking off a period of relatively consistent participation. This renewed involvement introduced Eurovision fans to a range of artists and musical styles, often embracing international collaborations and languages beyond Italian.

San Marino’s best result to date came in 2019 with Serhat and his infectious song “Say Na Na Na”. While the song was initially divisive, its catchy melody and charismatic performance resonated with the public, propelling San Marino to a surprising 19th place finish in the Grand Final. This achievement marked a high point for the nation and showcased its ability to connect with a broad audience.

Notable artists who have represented San Marino include Valentina Monetta, who holds the record for most appearances for the country. She flew the Sammarinese flag four times, including consecutive attempts from 2012-2014, finally reaching the Grand Final in 2014 with “Maybe”. Senhit, another returning artist, has also showcased her versatility and artistry on the Eurovision stage.

San Marino’s selection process has varied over the years, sometimes utilizing internal selections and other times opting for national finals to give local artists a chance to shine. They have often looked internationally for talent, embracing diverse musical genres from pop and rock to dance and balladry. This open-minded approach has allowed San Marino to experiment and find songs that stand out in the crowded Eurovision field.

Despite the challenges of competing against larger nations with more established music industries, San Marino’s passion for Eurovision remains strong. They continue to use the contest as a platform to promote their culture, showcase their talent, and connect with the world. San Marino’s journey in Eurovision is a testament to the power of music to transcend borders and unite people, regardless of their background or size. Each year, they return, hoping to capture the hearts of Europe and achieve their ultimate Eurovision dream.