sports
January 15, 2026
Eurovision song contest to go on tour to celebrate 70th anniversary
‘Iconic performers’ will visit 10 European cities, as event reels from boycott over Israel’s 2026 participation

TL;DR
- Eurovision will embark on its first-ever tour in June and July to mark its 70th anniversary.
- The tour will feature iconic performers and 2026 artists, performing their Eurovision entries and covers.
- Five countries (Spain, Iceland, Netherlands, Slovenia, and Ireland) have withdrawn from the contest due to Israel's war in Gaza.
- This boycott has resulted in the fewest participants since 2004.
- The Israeli broadcaster Kan welcomed Israel's participation and rejected allegations of political interference.
- Eurovision 2025 winner Nemo returned their trophy in protest.
- Conchita Wurst announced she would not participate in future Eurovision events.
- Despite lower viewership for the semi-final draw, the EBU reported a record sellout of tickets for the main contest.
- The contest finals are scheduled for May 16th in Vienna.
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