Public Broadcasting Services (PBS) has defended its decision not to allow singer Rhiannon Micallef to repeat her Malta Eurovision Song Contest semi-final performance, saying that technical checks found no production or audio fault that justified a re-performance under contest rules.

The issue arose after on Thursday's semi-finals, when Micallef appeared to struggle vocally during her performance and later claimed that her in-ear monitor was not functioning properly, affecting her ability to remain in key.

She subsequently requested to perform again, but the request was denied.

In a statement Friday, PBS said that it addressed concerns raised by singer Rhiannon Micallef "promptly and with care," following her semi-final performance at the Malta Eurovision Song Contest.

PBS said it met with the singer and members of her artistic team to listen to the issues raised and to review the performance together.

"Following comprehensive technical checks and assessments, no production-side technical fault or audio malfunction was identified or substantiated," PBS said.

The broadcaster said the situation was assessed in line with established procedures and the applicable contest rules, which allow repeat performances only in exceptional circumstances.

"As a general principle, a repeat performance may only be considered in exceptional circumstances where a verified technical failure has occurred and has materially affected the performance," PBS said.

It added that any such decision is taken on a case-by-case basis following confirmation by the relevant technical and production teams.

PBS said that on this basis, there was no justification for authorising a repeat performance in this case.

"PBS remains committed to treating all performers with respect and to ensuring fairness, transparency, and consistency in the application of the Contest Rules," the statement said.