AI Predicts Top Contenders for Eurovision 2026's First Semi-Final

Eurovision 2026 First Semi-Final Overview

According to Главком: Scheduled for May 12, 2026, the first semi-final of Eurovision 2026 will feature 15 competing nations. From this round, ten acts will secure a spot in the grand final. Notably, Italy and Germany-both members of the Big Four-will perform but are not vying for a finalist position. The event takes place in Vienna, Austria, with the broadcast set to begin at 22:00 Kyiv time.

Semi-Final Participants

Finland emerges as the standout favorite, with representatives Linda Lampenius and Pete Parkkonen earning a perfect 10/10 score from artificial intelligence for their song "Liekinheitin." The country also topped the OGAE Poll 2026 with 459 points. Greece, performed by Akylas with "Ferto," receives a 9.5/10 rating, while Israel’s Noam Bettan and her song "Michelle" scores 9/10. Sweden’s Felicia, singing "My System," also achieves 9/10.

Other acts with strong chances to advance include:

• Croatia (band Lelek, song "Andromeda," rating 8/10)
• Estonia (band Vanilla Ninja, song "Too Epic To Be True," rating 7.5/10)
• Poland (singer Alicja, song "Pray," rating 7/10)
• Lithuania (singer Lion Ceccah, song "Sоlo Quiero Mаs," rating 6.5/10)
• Moldova (singer Satoshi, song "Viva, Moldova!," rating 6/10)
• San Marino (singer Senhit, song "Superstar," rating 6/10)

Additional entries include Georgia’s Bzikebi with "On Replay" (5.5/10), Serbia’s Lavina performing "Kraj Mene" (5/10), and Montenegro’s Tamara Živković with "Nova Zora" (5/10). Belgium (ESSYLA, "Dancing on the Ice") and Portugal (Bandidos do Cante, "Rosa") received the lowest ratings at 3/10 and 3.5/10, respectively.

Ukraine will be represented by Leleka with the song "Ridnym" in the second semi-final. Leleka earned 10 points from the jury and 10 from the audience, totaling 20 points.

According to AI predictions, the winners of the first semi-final are Finland, Greece, Israel, Sweden, Croatia, Estonia, Poland, Lithuania, Moldova, and San Marino.

The Eurovision 2026 semi-final promises to be thrilling, with several frontrunners already gaining recognition for their performances. Finland, Greece, and Israel show strong positions that could shape voting dynamics. Ukraine’s participation is also a key highlight, as its powerful contender brings fresh hope for local fans. These factors underscore the contest’s role as a platform for cultural exchange and international musical competition.

As the excitement builds for Eurovision 2026, it's worth noting how Finland has taken the lead in fan polls, showcasing a strong preference for their representatives. This momentum could significantly impact their chances in the upcoming semi-final, further intensifying the competition among the other nations. Stay tuned for the latest updates and analyses as we approach the event!