One Spot Left: Ukraine Hands Eurovision Power Back to the People
Ukraine isn’t done picking its Eurovision finalists just yet. Nine names are locked in, but there’s still one empty chair at the table. And this time, it’s the public holding the pen.
Through a new vote launched by Suspilne Broadcasting, Ukrainians can now choose the tenth finalist of the National Selection for Eurovision 2026. No jury debates, no late-night speculation. Just a straight-up public vote, running via the Diia.
The window is open from 8 January (10:00) until 13 January (10:00). Blink and it’s gone.
Six Songs, One Chance
Six artists are competing for that final spot. All six songs are already out, all six are very much being discussed, and all six are hoping to land on the stage on 7 February, when the National Selection final takes place as a full-scale televised concert.
Here’s who’s in the running:
- KHAYAT – Hertsi
- Karyotype – DNA
- MON FIA – Do You Hear Me?
- ANSTAY – by the way
- Marta Adamchuk – Silvered Pines
- OKS – SAY IT ALL
If you’re voting, yes, you’re expected to listen first. All tracks are available on the Eurovision Ukraine YouTube channel, which means opinions have already formed and changed at least twice.
Jamala Says: Think Bigger
Music producer Jamala didn’t sugar-coat it. This stage of the selection was hard. Really hard. Narrowing things down never is, especially when you know what Eurovision actually demands.
Her advice to voters is simple: don’t imagine these artists on a national stage. Imagine them in Vienna, in May, carrying a song, a voice and a message in front of all of Europe.
No pressure. Just Eurovision.
What Happens Next (Because There’s Always a Next Step)
Once the vote closes, the results will form a ranking. If the top choice can’t take part in the final for valid reasons, the slot passes to the next artist in line. Practical. Eurovision-proof.
Whoever wins this vote will join the nine already announced finalists, including Jerry Heil, LAUD, LELÉKA, MOLODI, Monokate, Mr. Vel, The Elliens, Valeriya Force and ShchukaRyba.
All Eyes on 7 February
The final of Ukraine’s National Selection takes place on 7 February, alongside a fundraising initiative supporting prosthetics for veterans. As usual, Ukraine is combining music with meaning, without making a song and dance about it.
For now, though, it’s simple.
Six songs.
One open spot.
A public vote that actually decides something.
Choose carefully. Ukraine usually does.
Source: Suspilne
