Poli Genova Barred from Competing for Eurovision 2026
The Bulgarian national broadcaster, BNT, has rejected Poli Genova's application to participate in its national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. The rejection occurred during the initial phase of the selection process, known as Natsionalna Selektsiya 2026. Genova was deemed ineligible due to her failure to meet newly implemented criteria set by BNT. A key requirement mandates that an artist must have been ranked within the top 40 most-played artists on Bulgarian radio stations over the preceding 18 months. Poli Genova lacked sufficient airplay rotation in Bulgaria, which served as the primary reason for her exclusion from the competition. This move highlights a strategic shift by broadcasters to prioritize artists with proven, recent domestic popularity.
Poli Genova's Previous Eurovision History
Poli Genova previously represented Bulgaria at Eurovision 2016, where she achieved a strong fourth-place finish with her song 'Thunder'. Despite this past success, her lack of radio airplay over the last year and a half impacted her ability to compete again on the European stage. It was also noted that Genova appeared alongside Russian artist Philipp Kirkorov at the Eurovision 2022 contest in Turin. Kirkorov is currently banned from entering Lithuania and Moldova.
Poli Genova commented on her situation:
“Since I haven't had active rotation on Bulgarian radio in the last 18 months, I was simply not admitted to the process.” - Poli Genova
Consequently, the new selection rules introduced by the Bulgarian broadcaster have significantly affected the eligibility of the well-known singer for the upcoming contest.
The exclusion of Poli Genova from the national selection for Eurovision 2026 underscores a changing approach to artist selection, where candidates must now meet specific criteria like active radio support. This likely indicates BNT's aim to ensure that only performers with current listener backing represent the country. In the competitive international arena, such metrics are increasingly seen as vital for improving a nation's chances of future success at the contest.