Bulgaria and Romania are set to return to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2026, which will be held in Vienna, Austria. This comeback occurs following years of absence amidst threats from several countries to boycott the event due to Israel’s participation.
Bulgaria returns after missing the 2023, 2024, and 2025 editions. Emil Koshlyukov, the Director-General of Bulgarian National Television (BNT), stated that Bulgaria’s return is part of the broadcaster’s mission to promote the nation’s culture and talent.
“Eurovision is a platform where cultures meet and stories are shared. BNT supports talented artists, and we are pleased to secure the opportunity for a Bulgarian artist to represent our country in front of millions once again,” he remarked in a statement.
Martin Green, Executive Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, expressed excitement over Bulgaria’s return to the Eurovision family after a three-year break.
“Their return is further proof that we remain united by music and highlights the contest’s immense popularity,” he added.
While Romania’s participation has not yet been confirmed by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), Dan-Cristian Turturică, Director-General of Televiziunea Română (TVR), has proposed Romania’s return to the contest.
“In our two-year absence, we have come to better understand what was not working between TVR, the music industry, and creators. We understand the changes needed on our part for a more competitive selection process and a program worthy of the competition’s scale,” he explained.
Romania last appeared in 2023, failing to reach the final.
Bulgaria’s Best Finish Second Place; Romania Reached Top 3 Twice
Bulgaria made its Eurovision debut in 2005, achieving its best result in 2017 with Kristian Kostov’s “Beautiful Mess,” finishing second behind Salvador Sobral’s “Amar pelos Dois.”
Romania has participated in the European music contest since 1994, having attained third place twice: in 2005 with “Let Me Try” by Luminita Anghel & Sistem, and again in 2010 with “Playing With Fire” by Paula Seling and Ovi.
Several Countries Threaten Eurovision Boycott If Israel Participates
The next edition of the Eurovision Song Contest will take place in Vienna, Austria, with the semifinals scheduled for May 12 and 14, and the grand final set for May 16, 2026.
However, this edition is already embroiled in controversy over Israel’s participation. In recent months, several countries have called on the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) to expel the Middle Eastern country due to its actions in the Gaza Strip.
State broadcasters from countries like Ireland, the Netherlands, Spain, Slovenia, and Iceland have even threatened to boycott the European contest if Israel is included.
