Ukraine’s Eurovision 2026 Hopeful Leleka Drops a Bandura-Infused Cover of ‘Baller’ Ahead of Vienna

A Fresh Take on ‘Baller’ with Ukrainian Flair

According to Главком: Victoria Leleka, who performs under the stage name Leleka and will represent Ukraine at the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, has released a cover of the track ‘Baller’. This song originally represented Germany at Eurovision 2025, performed by the duo Abor & Tynna. The cover was unveiled as part of the official digital series ‘A Little Bit More’ on the contest’s YouTube channel. Adding a distinct Ukrainian touch, musician Yaroslav Dzhus accompanied her on the bandura.

Leleka sang the piece entirely in German, showcasing her versatility and readiness for an international stage. The video was filmed as a single-take live performance, lending it an intimate and raw emotional quality. Reflecting on the song’s impact, Victoria Leleka shared:

‘the lyrics resonated with her so deeply that she learned them like an actor’s monologue.’ - Victoria Leleka

Final Preparations for the Big Stage

Leleka is currently in the final stages of preparing for her trip to Vienna, host city of the 70th anniversary edition of the Eurovision Song Contest. This milestone marks the first time the competition celebrates such a round number, making Ukraine’s participation particularly significant. Notably, Croatia’s Eurovision representative has also released a cover of Ruslana’s ‘Wild Dances’, highlighting the creative energy among artists aiming to captivate audiences at this prestigious event.

Victoria Leleka’s journey to Eurovision 2026 reflects not only her personal artistic growth but also a broader trend on the international stage, where performers increasingly incorporate cultural elements from different countries. Given the contest’s anniversary nature, heightened competition and audience interest are expected, which could further boost the global visibility of Ukrainian music and culture.

As Victoria Leleka gears up for her performance in Vienna, her recent accomplishments reflect a significant evolution in her artistry. Following her successful European promotional tour, including a landmark performance in London, she has gained valuable experience that will undoubtedly enhance her presence on the Eurovision stage. To learn more about her journey and the impact of her recent shows, check out how Leleka wrapped up her European tour.