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- Five countries (Spain, Iceland, Netherlands, Slovenia, and Ireland) have withdrawn from the contest due to Israel's war in Gaza.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.