Eurovision 2026 Crisis: EBU Responds as Slovenia & Iceland Threaten to Withdraw Over Israel’s Participation
The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 hasn’t even kicked off yet, and Vienna is already drowning in drama. After weeks of mounting pressure, EBU Director Martin Green has spoken out following reports that Slovenia and Iceland are considering pulling out of next year’s contest if Israel is allowed to compete.
EBU Breaks Its Silence
In a written statement to DR, Martin Green addressed growing tensions:
“We understand the concerns and deeply held views around the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. We are still consulting with all EBU members to gather views on how we manage participation and geopolitical tensions around the Eurovision Song Contest.”
He confirmed that broadcasters have until mid-December 2025 to confirm participation in Eurovision 2026, which will be hosted in Vienna, Austria from 12 to 16 May 2026.
Slovenia Draws a Hard Line
Slovenia’s broadcaster RTVSLO has already warned the EBU that it “will not participate if Israel competes”, citing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The broadcaster had planned to launch a new national selection show this autumn, but preparations have been paused until the EBU reaches a decision on Israel’s status.
Iceland Joins the Backlash
Iceland’s broadcaster RÚV also signalled a possible withdrawal. Director General Stefán Eiríksson told Rás 2:
“If there is no change in the EBU’s position, and it does not respond to these voices of concern coming from us, from Spain, from Slovenia and others, then that will call for reactions from these broadcasters.”
For now, Iceland is still planning to hold Söngvakeppnin in early 2026 — but participation in Vienna depends on the EBU’s final decision this winter.
Spain Turns Up the Heat
Spain’s Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun has called on RTVE to withdraw from Eurovision if Israel is allowed to compete, insisting:
“We cannot normalise Israel’s participation as if nothing is happening.”
Meanwhile, Belgium’s RTBF and the Netherlands’ AVROTROS are also in talks with the EBU about “geopolitical influences” on the contest.
Israel’s Position
Despite the backlash, Israel’s broadcaster KAN has confirmed plans to participate in Vienna. The country secured second place in Eurovision 2025, boosted by a controversial YouTube ad campaign financed by the Israeli government — which critics claim influenced televotes across Europe.
What Happens Next
- EBU consultation ends: December 2025
- Broadcasters confirm participation: By mid-December
- Eurovision 2026 dates: 12–16 May in Vienna
- Potential withdrawals: Slovenia , Iceland , and possibly Spain
All eyes are now on the EBU’s winter vote, which could redefine Eurovision’s political landscape.
Source: DR
