Iceland Boycotts Eurovision 2026 After Israel’s Entry Is Cleared as Field Drops to 34

Overview

• Iceland’s public broadcaster RÚV became the fifth to pull out, joining Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands and Slovenia in protesting Israel’s participation.
• A majority within the European Broadcasting Union decided no vote was needed on Israel’s eligibility, enabling KAN to compete.
• With Bulgaria, Romania and Moldova returning, the provisional lineup stands at 34, which could produce semi-finals of 14 and 15 acts and a 25-act final due to Spain’s absence from the Big 5.
• Host broadcaster ORF and the EBU have set the shows for May 12, 14 and 16, 2026, restored national juries in the semi-finals and opened ticket sign-ups.
• In Portugal, 11 of 16 Festival da Canção artists say they would refuse Eurovision if selected, while Israel is expected to name its act in February via HaKokhav HaBa and event director Martin Green voiced respect for withdrawals with hopes of returns in 2027.