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Spain Withdraws From Eurovision 2026 Over Israel's Inclusion as Boycott Grows

The decision makes Spain the first Big Five broadcaster to step aside, sharpening questions over the EBU's neutrality after Russia's 2022 expulsion.

Overview

  • RTVE confirmed it will not send an entry to Vienna after the EBU assembly ratified Israel's participation.
  • Broadcasters in Ireland, Slovenia and the Netherlands have also announced they will sit out the 2026 contest in protest.
  • The withdrawal ends Spain's uninterrupted run since its 1961 debut, removing a longtime automatic finalist.
  • Israeli 1998 winner Dana International called Spain's move "violent and insulting" and said it betrays Eurovision's values.
  • Supporters in Spain, including past representatives, welcomed the stance, while voices like Karina urged redirecting contest funds to public healthcare.