In the wake of the latest developments regarding the forthcoming Eurovision Song Contest 2026 and the competing broadcaster’s potential withdrawals, given the geopolitical scenario in the Middle East, the EBU has released a fresh statement regarding this matter.
A number of European broadcasters have raised concerns regarding Israel’s participation at the Eurovision Song Contest given the current geopolitcal scenario: Spain, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia.
Ireland has announced today that if Israel competes at the Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, it will withdraw from the competition. Slovenia and Iceland have both stated that their Eurovision 2026 participation remains uncertain and will make a final decision after the EBU’s decision.
Martin Green (Eurovision Song Contest Director) gave SKY News the following statement:
We understand the concerns and deeply held views around the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. We are still consulting with all EBU Members to gather views on how we manage participation and geopolitical tensions around the Eurovision Song Contest.
Broadcasters have until mid-December to confirm if they wish to take part in next year’s event in Vienna. It is up to each member to decide if they want to take part in the contest and we would respect any decision broadcasters make.
The EBU is currently undertaking a wide-ranging consultation with its Member broadcasters around participation in the Eurovision Song Contest.
While this is ongoing, the EBU would like provide broadcasters with additional flexibility and clarity in finalizing their application to take part in next year’s event.
The deadline for broadcasters to withdraw their Eurovision 2026 applications without suffering a financial penalty has been extended to mid-December from its initial date (13th October) due to the given circumstances.
The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest is scheduled to be held on 12, 14 and 16 May in Vienna, Austria.
