Eurovision 2026: Bulgaria Wins Amid Boycotts and Protests
The 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest concluded on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Vienna, Austria, with Bulgaria claiming its first victory in the competition. The event was marked by the absence of five participating countries, security measures, and public demonstrations related to Israel's participation.
Contest Results
Bulgaria won the grand final with the song "Bangaranga" performed by Dara. The entry received 516 points. Israel finished in second place with "Michelle" performed by Noam Bettan. Romania placed third with "Choke Me" by Alexandra Căpitănescu, and Australia finished fourth with "Eclipse" performed by Delta Goodrem. Italy placed fifth with "Per Sempre Si" by Sal Da Vinci.
Host nation Austria placed 19th. The United Kingdom placed 25th, last among the finalists.
The grand final featured 25 acts: 20 qualifiers from two semi-finals, the "Big Four" countries (Germany, France, Italy, United Kingdom), and reigning champion Austria. The running order was determined after the second semi-final.
Boycotts
Five countries did not participate in the 2026 contest: Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Iceland, and Slovenia. Their national broadcasters announced withdrawals between September and December 2025, citing Israel's continued participation amid the conflict in Gaza.
Spain's broadcaster RTVE stated that "Israel's use of the contest for political purposes" complicated maintaining it as a neutral cultural event.
Ireland's RTÉ referenced the "appalling loss of lives in Gaza."
The Netherlands' AVROTROS cited Israel's participation as "no longer compatible with the responsibility we bear as a public broadcaster."
Slovenia's broadcaster aired alternative programming titled "Voices of Palestine."
These withdrawals resulted in 35 participating countries, the lowest number since 2003.
Security Measures
Vienna deployed extensive security for the event. Authorities used 500 private security personnel, 180 new cameras, counter-drone technology, sniffer dogs, and collaborated with an FBI task force to monitor cyber threats. The Wiener Stadthalle was surrounded by fencing with guarded entries. Bags were banned for attendees, and a code of conduct prohibited political statements and sexual relations backstage.
Protests and Demonstrations
Pro-Palestinian demonstrations occurred in Vienna during the contest period. Police reported approximately 2,000 attendees at a protest on Saturday. Demonstrators marched chanting "Free, free Palestine" and "boycott Eurovision." The protest was largely peaceful with no arrests.
During Israel's semi-final performance, four protesters were removed from the auditorium. During the grand final, some audience members displayed Palestinian flags, turned their backs during Israel's performance, and chanted "stop the genocide." Boos were heard during the announcement of Israel's public vote score.
An alternative concert titled "United for Palestine" took place in Brussels, featuring Palestinian musician Bashar Murad and European artists. Additional alternative concerts occurred across Europe, including in Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Italy, and Spain.
Organizer Statements and Contest Rules
Martin Green, director of the Eurovision Song Contest, stated that large-scale events are not immune to world events. He said he respects the decision of boycotting countries but hopes they return. He defended Israel's participation, stating that Israeli broadcaster KAN operates independently from the Israeli government.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) implemented new voting rules for 2026, intended to enhance neutrality and reduce government influence. The EBU tightened rules against third-party campaign involvement. The EBU's general assembly voted on new rules for campaigning and public voting, with 65% in favor, 10% abstaining, and no direct vote on Israel's status.
The EBU has excluded Russia from the competition since its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. EBU deputy director general Jean Philip De Tender stated that Russia's state broadcaster VGTRK is government-run, while Israel's KAN is independent.
Financial Impact
Corporate sponsors withdrew from the 2026 contest, and lost licensing fees resulted in a decline in revenue. EBU member fees and sponsorships are the organization's main income sources. The withdrawal of Spain, a "Big Five" country and significant financial contributor, has shifted costs to remaining participants.
Future Contest
Bulgaria will host the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest following its victory. A separate Eurovision Song Contest Asia is scheduled to debut in Bangkok, Thailand, on November 14, 2026, with ten initially confirmed participating nations.
Background on Gaza Conflict
The conflict in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, following an attack by Hamas-led militants. Reports indicate approximately 1,200 deaths, predominantly civilians, and 251 hostages taken in Israel. Israel's government has described its military campaign as a response to this attack. The Gaza Health Ministry reports over 70,000 fatalities in the territory since the conflict began. Some experts and a U.N. body have alleged that Israel's actions constitute genocide, a claim Israel has denied.