For months hype has surrounded her bid to return to Eurovision in 2016. And earlier this evening Ira Losco lived up to all of it by winning the Malta Eurovision Song Contest with her song “Chameleon”.

Dressed in all-white, the 34-year-old star looked angelic and ethereal in a pair of white pants covered with a translucent white cape and veil. At times her LED screen featured digital artwork of her own face — a testament to how strong her brand is on the island. In the moments before she stepped on the stage, the audience was already chanting her name — and they did so long after she exited.

Vocally on-point and feeding off the energy of the crowd, she upped her game tonight, singing with more vigour and drive than in the semi-final. The song could use some tweaks ahead of Stockholm — to me it needs a bigger climax — but the fact is she has a solid foundation for a song that could climb the scoreboard at Eurovision. After tonight, let there be no doubt: she won because she gave an amazing performance and has a strong song, not because she carries a big name.

Ira Losco — Chameleon (Malta national final)

Our reaction to Ira’s win

MESC 2016: Full Results

Ira Losco interview after the semi-final

What did you think of Ira’s performance and her win? Do you think she has what it takes to win Eurovision 2016 in Stockholm? Let us know in the comments box below!