Overview
- Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain will not participate after protesting Israel’s inclusion.
- Bulgaria, Moldova and Romania return to the contest, bringing the field to 35 after 37 competed in 2025.
- Organizers retained Israel despite criticism over the Gaza war and past vote-manipulation allegations, a decision welcomed by Israeli officials citing free-expression concerns.
- Nemo, Switzerland’s 2024 winner, said they will return their trophy in protest of Israel’s participation.
- Vienna’s Wiener Stadthalle will host shows on May 12, 14 and 16, with jury voting restored in the semi-finals as part of reforms intended to curb vote-rigging.