The Olympics may be over, but there’s another major global competition happening in 2012. We're talking, of course, about the race for this year’s Worldwide Act EMA, only the second ever to be awarded—and as of today, the finalists are off and running!

Tons of dedicated music fans across the earth voted for their favourite local artists. Then they voted for the artist to represent their region in the running for Worldwide Act. And all their clicks have now determined the 5 nominees! They are…

Worldwide Act Africa-India-Middle East Nominee: Ahmed Soultan
Worldwide Act Asia Pacific Nominee: Han Geng
Worldwide Act Europe Nominee: Dima Bilan
Worldwide Act Latin America Nominee: Restart
Worldwide Act North America Nominee: Rihanna

Now it’s time to vote for your favourite nominee to be recognized as 2012’s premier international artist! From now until 9 November, keep clicking to pick the winner of Worldwide Act, as well as all the other EMA categories. The victors will be announced on 11 November at the big Frankfurt event, airing live at 9PM CET!