Woe Vienna? Boycotts and blackouts mar buildup as Eurovision 2026 begins
Usually joyous song contest ‘a little bit sad’ this year, says one expert, with rows over Israel and costs to the fore
TL;DR
- Eurovision's 70th anniversary in Vienna is marred by boycotts from Spain, Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia, and Iceland due to Israel's inclusion.
- The boycotts could impact viewing figures, with some countries imposing media blackouts or broadcasting alternative programming.
- Financial sustainability is a growing concern for public broadcasters funding the event, exacerbated by political rows.
- Protests related to the Israel-Palestine conflict are scheduled in Vienna during the contest week.
- Israel's participation has been controversial, with scrutiny over song lyrics and government promotion of its contestants.
- The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is expanding Eurovision into Asia with a contest in Bangkok.
- Changes to voting rules for the 2026 edition will reduce the maximum number of votes per payment route.
- Bookmakers' favorites for the contest include Finland, Greece, and Denmark, with Israel also considered a contender.