Five countries have boycotted the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna over Israel's participation, marking an unprecedented moment in the event's 70-year history. Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia and Iceland will not participate, with some broadcasters refusing to air the show. Spain and the Netherlands are traditionally the fifth and sixth largest financial contributors, while Ireland is the joint record-holder for most wins.
The boycotts follow Israel's clearance to compete, which critics say contradicts the European Broadcasting Union's (EBU) decision to bar Russia after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The standoff has been brewing since the Hamas attack on 7 October 2023 and Israel's subsequent bombardment of Gaza. The five nations announced their boycott last December, before participating broadcasters could vote on Israel's inclusion.
Viewing figures are expected to drop significantly. The final will not be broadcast in Ireland, Slovenia and Spain, where nearly 5.9 million viewers watched in 2025. Spanish broadcaster RTVE will air its own musical special, while Irish viewers will see the animated comedy Mummies and Slovenian viewers a series on Palestine. The Netherlands and Iceland will show the event but have not submitted contestants.
Cultural historian Irving Wolther said financing Eurovision will become harder as public broadcasters face cuts across Europe. "In that context, the political rows don't help," he added. Paul Jordan, a historian of the contest, said the buildup has felt like an anticlimax. "Eurovision is meant to be joyous. But this year it feels a little bit sad," he said.
Despite the turmoil, the EBU has announced an expansion into Asia, with the first Eurovision Asia contest scheduled for November in Bangkok. Eurovision director Martin Green promised a spectacular show celebrating the contest's ability to bring people together. However, rallies both supporting and protesting Israel's participation are expected in Vienna, with about 3,000 protesters planning a rally on Friday.
