First Semi-Final Lineup for Eurovision 2026 Announced
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has confirmed the lineup for the first semi-final of Eurovision 2026, scheduled for May 12 in Vienna. The draw, which took place on March 11, 2026, placed 15 countries in this round, with Germany and Italy already securing automatic places in the final. In a significant shift, the EBU has also revised the voting system, altering the balance of power between national juries and the public televote. The Eurovision Song Contest is one of the world's largest non-sporting live television events, drawing intense scrutiny over its rules and participants.
On May 12, the 15 competing nations will vie for 10 spots in the grand final. The outcome will be determined by a 50/50 split between professional juries and viewer votes. Countries performing in the first half of this semi-final include Greece, Georgia, Moldova, Portugal, Finland, Croatia, and Sweden. Their entries feature a diverse range of artists and songs, such as:
- Greece: Akylas with 'Ferto (Let's Go!)'
- Georgia: Bzikebi with 'On Replay'
The second half of the semi-final will see performances from Belgium, Estonia, Israel, Lithuania, Poland, San Marino, Serbia, and Montenegro. Notable acts include Belgium's Essyla with 'Dancing on the Ice' and Israel's Noam Bettan with 'Michelle'. The automatic finalists, Germany and Italy, will be represented by:
- Sarah Engels (Germany) with 'Fire'
- Sal Da Vinci (Italy) with 'Per sempre sì (Forever Yes)'
Three Nations Announce Boycott Over Israel's Inclusion
Ireland, Spain, and the Netherlands have declared they will boycott the 2026 contest in protest of Israel's participation. Their decision stems from the EBU's general assembly, where a vote on Israel's eligibility was not held, a move that sparked condemnation from the three nations. This controversy has become a major point of discussion in the lead-up to the event, reflecting wider geopolitical tensions that occasionally intersect with the contest.
Alongside the voting changes, the EBU has introduced new rules regarding song promotion, which will influence how countries campaign for votes. These regulatory shifts, combined with the announced boycotts, are creating a uniquely charged atmosphere for Eurovision 2026, setting the stage for an event that promises to be as much about cultural diplomacy as musical competition.
The run-up to Eurovision 2026 is marked by a major overhaul of the voting system and formal boycotts from several countries. These developments could significantly impact the contest's global perception and highlight ongoing political and social debates.