ORF Director General Resigns Over Harassment Claims Ahead of Eurovision

Roland Weissmann Steps Down

According to Главком: The Director General of Austria's national broadcaster ORF, Roland Weissmann, resigned on March 9, 2026, following allegations of sexual harassment. The accusations, made by a female ORF employee, relate to incidents alleged to have occurred at the start of his tenure in 2022. Weissmann, 57, denies any wrongdoing. He had worked at ORF for 30 years, including the last four as its head.

New Leadership and Challenges

Ingrid Thurnher has been appointed as the acting Director General of ORF. In connection with Weissmann's resignation, his lawyer, Oliver Scherbaum, stated that

"his client was not even provided with the full text of the complaint, and the resignation was a voluntary gesture."

This leadership crisis comes at a critical time for the broadcaster. ORF is set to host the 70th Eurovision Song Contest in 2026. Meanwhile, Ireland, Spain, and the Netherlands have announced they will boycott the event due to Israel's participation. At a recent European Broadcasting Union (EBU) general assembly, no vote was held regarding Israel's involvement. The EBU has also announced changes to the Eurovision voting system.

Weissmann's departure could have significant consequences for ORF, particularly as it prepares for the massive logistical undertaking of hosting Eurovision. A change in leadership in this crucial context may impact organizational processes and the Austrian broadcaster's international image. The boycott by several countries further questions the stability of the contest, potentially creating additional challenges for ORF's new leadership in ensuring the event's successful execution.