Eurovision 2026 Grand Final
Vienna hosted the grand final of the 70th Eurovision Song Contest on May 16, 2026. Ukrainian viewers were particularly quick to react, flooding social media with memes targeting both the contestants and the presenters. According to an audience poll conducted at the venue, Ukraine finished in 21st place with 41 votes. A total of 25 countries competed in the final.
This year's show was hosted by singer Victoria Swarovski and actor Michael Ostrowski. Ukrainians online drew comparisons between the hosts and well-known local figures like Olha Freimut, Vasyl Baidak, and Pavlo Zibrov. Several commenters also pointed out that Michael Ostrowski's outfit looked like something the band Ziferblat—who competed at Eurovision 2025—would wear.
Contestants and Reactions
The final lineup featured performers from a range of countries, including:
- Lion Ceccah with the song Solo Quiero Mas,
- Aidan representing Malta with Bella,
- Noam Bettan from Israel performing Michelle,
- Finland's duo Linda Lampenius and Pete Parkkonen with Liekinheitin,
- Sweden's Felicia singing My System,
- Antigoni from Cyprus with JALLA,
- And Akylas representing Greece with Ferto (Let's Go!).
Reactions from Ukrainians toward the presenters and contestants were varied and lively. One user remarked:
“Eurovision is being hosted by Freimut and old Baidak.”Another commented: “Our diva in a new look. But I see the hero from Ugly Me.” These types of comments show how much attention the hosts' appearances drew.
Regarding the performances, one viewer wrote: 'Cyprus. When you show up at karaoke with your girlfriends. Please turn off her microphone.' That criticism was echoed by others. Another user asked: “Since when does Fantômas perform at Eurovision?”
The Eurovision Audience Poll was conducted by organizations including ESC Insight, 12 Points From America, ESCXTRA.com, That Eurovision Site, Merci Chérie, and ESC Gabe. These results reflect how engaged audiences are with the contest, eager to share opinions on both the acts and the presenters.
Eurovision 2026 proved to be more than just a music event; it became a platform for discussion and critique, showcasing the active role Ukrainian viewers play on social media.
The outcome of Eurovision 2026 highlights the contest's importance to Ukraine's cultural life and its place in the broader European context. Despite finishing 21st, the high level of online engagement shows a strong interest in the competition. It also demonstrates that Ukrainian audiences are not passive spectators—they actively shape how the show is perceived by creating trends and memes, making the contest even more interactive and relevant in today's digital landscape.
As the excitement surrounding Eurovision 2026 builds, it's worth noting how the performances have sparked a wave of reactions from Ukrainian audiences. Many viewers have taken to social media to share their thoughts not just on the hosts, but also on the contestants' acts. For a closer look at how Ukrainians have humorously critiqued the performances during the first semi-final, check out our coverage of the audience's reactions and memorable moments from the first semi-final.