Ukraine's Eurovision 2026 Entry: Leleka Unveils Revamped 'Ridnym' for Vienna

Leleka Presents Revised Song for Eurovision

According to Главком: On March 8, Ukrainian singer Leleka, whose real name is Viktoriia Korniikova, presented a revised version of her song 'Ridnym,' with which she will represent Ukraine at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna. The new version features musical changes, including an enhanced bandura part performed by Yaroslav Dzus. Leleka won Ukraine's national selection for Eurovision 2026, receiving the maximum 10 points from both the jury and the public, for a total of 20 points. The Eurovision stage offers a unique global platform for artists to showcase national culture through music.

About the Band Leleka and the Solo Project Donbasgrl

The 35-year-old Leleka was formed in Berlin in 2016 and performs folk-jazz music. The band consists of Robert Winröder, Thomas Kolarczyk, and Yakov Hegner. Additionally, Viktoriia Korniikova is the initiator of the solo project Donbasgrl, which was launched in 2024. The Donbasgrl project gained recognition by being selected for the Eurosonic Noorderslag festival in 2025 and headlining the Green Futures stage at the Glastonbury Festival that same year.

'The Eurovision version of 'Ridnym' is special to me. I wanted to emphasize its roots and sound even more strongly, so right at the beginning, there is more of the bandura's pure sound. The bandura is a very symbolic instrument for Ukrainian culture. Its sound contains our history, our songs, and our memory. I call it the 'Ukrainian harp,' but for us, it holds an even deeper meaning-it's a sound that instantly brings you home.' Viktoriia Korniikova

The updated version of 'Ridnym,' representing Ukraine at Eurovision 2026, reflects deep cultural traditions and emotions tied to Ukrainian identity. Leleka is ready for new challenges on the international stage, hoping for success in Vienna.

Leleka's participation in Eurovision 2026 underscores the importance of musical art as a means of preserving and promoting Ukrainian culture beyond the country's borders. By celebrating her roots through music, the singer has an opportunity to draw attention to Ukrainian heritage and highlight contemporary trends in the music world. Preparation for the contest will be another step in the career development of Viktoriia Korniikova and her band, as well as an opportunity to represent Ukraine on an international platform.