After last year’s security challenges and financial strain, Malmö has ruled itself out as a host city for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, should Sweden win again. With Finnish trio KAJ currently leading the betting odds, Swedish cities are already weighing their options.
Malmö hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in 2024 following Loreen’s victory with Tattoo the previous year. However, the event proved to be a major challenge for the city. Large-scale protests against Israel’s participation led to heightened security measures, surging costs, and extensive social media backlash. The city’s marketing manager, Anna Wittgren, has now confirmed that Malmö has no intention of hosting again.
“We will hand over with a warm hand to someone else next year,” Wittgren stated.
Northbound hopes
With KAJ leading the betting odds for Saturday’s Grand Final in Basel, a Swedish victory is within reach. However, Malmö is stepping aside, and other cities are preparing to take the spotlight. According to Wittgren, it’s time for cities in northern Sweden to shine in 2026.
So far, Gothenburg and Örnsköldsvik have expressed interest in hosting, should the opportunity arise.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 will take place in Basel, Switzerland, with the semi-finals scheduled for 13 and 15 May, and the Grand Final on 17 May. Sweden’s KAJ will perform Bara bada bastu in the first semi-final, performing 6th in the running order.
