Leleka Arrives Home in Kyiv Following Eurovision 2026
Ukrainian singer Leleka has returned to Kyiv after competing in the grand final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, held on the night of May 16–17, 2026, in Vienna. She finished in ninth place with a total of 221 points—54 from the professional jury and 167 from the public vote. During her performance, she was joined on stage by bandurist Yaroslav Dzhus, highlighting her deep connection to Ukrainian musical traditions.
The Singer’s Emotions and Future Plans
At the Kyiv train station, Leleka shared a video of her meeting with fans, expressing her feelings about the performance and outlining her plans ahead.
“Wonderful people, thank you for giving us such a warm welcome yesterday in Kyiv. Our Eurovision marathon is over. I want to create again, write new music, and see you in packed concert halls,”she said.
She also mentioned her need for rest:
“I want to go into hibernation for a week, to forget about everyone completely. Then I’ll start writing music. To cleanse myself and write music.”Leleka emphasized that she gave her absolute best on stage: “Everything was at the highest level I could achieve. I gave everything I had. We sounded worthy, we sounded dignified, and we spoke about what matters to us.”
A total of 25 acts performed at Eurovision 2026, including famous Ukrainian artists Ruslana and Verka Serduchka, who also showcased their work at the 70th anniversary edition of the contest. In the coming days, Leleka plans to give a series of major interviews, allowing her to share her impressions and thoughts on taking part in this prestigious international event.
Leleka’s participation in Eurovision 2026 marked a significant moment for Ukraine’s music scene, reinforcing the country’s tradition of strong representation at international competitions. Her ninth-place finish with 221 points reflects considerable interest in her artistry as well as strong audience support. The singer intends to continue her career, which could lead to new projects and collaborations, further strengthening cultural exchange between Ukraine and other nations. Her notable performance in Vienna is likely to open up fresh opportunities for Leleka on the global stage.
As Leleka reflects on her emotional journey at Eurovision, it's worth revisiting her stunning first rehearsal, where she captivated the audience with her performance featuring the bandura. This earlier moment set the stage for her remarkable competition, showcasing her dedication to Ukrainian musical heritage.