well it was stated that the format had been sold to the americans, and italy has its own contest (some say the idea was taken from this)

 

do any other countries in the world hold similar contests

Italy actually had their Eurovision thing before the real Eurovision started I think, I don't think anywhere else has it but it will be interesting to know for sure if anyone knows.

Italy actually had their Eurovision thing before the real Eurovision started I think

Yeah the San Remo festival, number one show in Italy last year!!! no wonder why they dont bother with eurovision