The Dutch artist Joost Klein has been disqualified from the Eurovision Song Contest after a backstage incident.

The performer has been sent home after an allegation of intimidation was made to Swedish police by a female member of the production crew.

In a statement, the contest organisers said “it would not be appropriate for him to continue in the contest” while the legal process takes place.

Dutch broadcaster Avrtotros called Klein’s exclusion “disproportionate”.

The singer had been among the favourites to win this year’s contest with his song, Europapa.

A pro-Europe techno anthem, it was dedicated to his father who he lost to cancer aged 12.

Now 26, the singer had promised his father he would one day make it to the Eurovision stage.

News of his suspension emerged on Friday afternoon, during the first dress rehearsal for Saturday’s televised grand final.

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