New Voting Rules Announced for Eurovision 2026

Eurovision 2026: Measures to Safeguard Voting Integrity

According to Главком: The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has released details on the mechanisms designed to ensure fair voting at the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest. A total of 35 countries will compete, alongside a 'Rest of the World' category. Viewers will have three ways to cast their votes: by phone, SMS, or through an online platform. Each channel will be limited to a maximum of 10 votes per user.

Voting by the public will be restricted in several countries, including:

• Armenia
• Austria
• Bulgaria
• Georgia
• Malta

Each professional jury evaluating the performances will consist of seven experts, with at least two members aged between 18 and 25. The second full dress rehearsal, also known as the jury show, is scheduled for May 11, 13, and 15, giving juries the opportunity to assess the acts before the grand final.

Data validation will take 12 to 13 minutes during the semi-finals, while approximately half an hour will be allocated for the final. An independent compliance monitor will be brought in to verify the transparency of the voting process. These steps aim to uphold fairness and openness in a contest that has become a beloved tradition across Europe and beyond.

Ensuring transparency and fairness in Eurovision voting is a crucial step in maintaining the trust of both viewers and participants.

With intense global competition and a large number of participating nations, such measures help prevent potential manipulation and strengthen confidence in the results. These changes not only impact the event itself but could also serve as a model for other international contests and gatherings.

As the excitement builds for the Eurovision 2026, the recently commenced closed rehearsals in Vienna are providing valuable insights into the preparations. These sessions are crucial for ensuring that each performance is polished and ready for the grand event, further enhancing the integrity of the competition.