Friday, OGAE Germany reported Hungary will not participate in the 51st Eurovision Song Contest, in Athens next year. The fanclub based its story on inside sources. Through DotEurovision.com, broadcaster MTV confirmed it will not take part in the 2006 contest.

The broadcaster had to come to this drastic decision because of financial reasons. According to a local report, László Czeglédi, the president of the Hungarian public broadcaster, has asked parliament to provide the company with its promised budget, rather than any additional funding. In practical terms, it needs EUR 10,33 millionjust to keep functioning as normal.

The European Broadcasting Union is aware of the situation.

Hungary made a successful comeback to the contest in 2005 with the group NOX. Their song Forogj világ qualified for the final ánd came 12th with 97 points.

After a debut in 1994, the 1998 Eurovision Song Contest made Hungary decide to stay home.