Standing Ovation for Leleka: Ukraine Takes 12th Spot in Eurovision Semi-Final

Eurovision 2026: Second Semi-Final in Vienna

According to Главком: Scheduled for May 14 in Vienna, the second semi-final of Eurovision 2026 will feature Ukrainian singer Leleka performing the track "Ridnym." Ukraine is set to take the stage at position 12. Pre-show broadcasts begin at 9:30 PM Kyiv time, with the semi-final itself kicking off at 10:00 PM. Audiences can tune in via the channel "Suspilne Kultura" and other platforms.

Lineup and Broadcast Details

A total of 15 nations are competing in this second semi-final. Ukrainian commentator Timur Miroshnychenko will provide coverage of the performances, while Svitlana Tarabarova and Alyona Alyona are set to co-host both the final and the second semi-final. The first semi-final, held on May 12, already determined 10 countries advancing to the grand final:

• Greece
• Finland
• Belgium
• Sweden
• Moldova
• Israel
• Serbia
• Croatia
• Lithuania
• Poland

Members of the "Big Five," along with host nation Austria, are performing in the second semi-final and automatically qualify for the final. All performances can be viewed in Ukrainian or English across multiple outlets, including the "Eurovision Ukraine" YouTube channel, "Suspilne Kultura" TV, the "Suspilne Eurovision" website, and "Radio Promin." English coverage is available on the official "Eurovision" YouTube channel.

The event is anticipated to be vibrant and emotionally charged, continuing the tradition of a massive music competition that draws millions of viewers worldwide each year.

Ukraine's participation in Eurovision carries significance beyond music, serving as a symbol of national culture and identity. Leleka's performance of "Ridnym" could further bolster Ukraine's image on the international stage.

For fans and viewers, this is also a chance to support Ukrainian culture amid the modern challenges the country faces.

As the excitement builds for Leleka's upcoming performance, fans can also catch a glimpse of her first rehearsal in Vienna, which showcased a captivating blend of traditional instruments and impressive visuals. This rehearsal not only sets the stage for her live performance but also highlights the artistic depth of Ukraine's representation at Eurovision. To learn more about Leleka's rehearsal and the unique elements she brings to the competition, check out our coverage here.