During a press conference, yesterday, 2006 Eurovision Song Contest host broadcaster ERT announced that organising the Eurovision Song Contest in Athens gave an immidiate profit for the Greek broadcaster. Along with the income and expenses, the fees of Maria Menounos and Sakis Rouvas were also announced.

To organise the Eurovision Song Contest, ERT paid EUR 5,534,000 from it's budget. The total income from the contest is currently set at EUR 7,280,000. Maria Menounos received EUR 35,000 to host the show, Sakis Rouvas EUR 50,000.

ERT concluded with a statement saying that the Greek tax payer didn't pay anything for the contest, as the revenue was higher than the costs. The Greek national broadcaster will use the profit to fund cinema, music and cultural events to promote the Greek culture. ERT's executive manager also stated that the contest has long-term effects regarding the promotion of Greece in Europe.

Finally, ERT expressed its satisfaction with the organisation of the contest and thanked everyone involved.