Romania’s Eurovision comeback: after two years of silence, a humbler tune

It’s not often that a broadcaster admits it was part of the problem.
But that’s exactly what Romanian Television (TVR) has done in announcing its return to the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 — a comeback that’s less about glitter and more about growing up.

A symbolic return for a double anniversary

The decision, approved by TVR’s Board on 30 October, coincides with two milestones: 70 years of Romanian television and 70 editions of Eurovision. In other words, both institutions are blowing out the same candles next spring — and Romania wants to look good in the photo.

“We learned what didn’t work”

In a rare moment of candour, TVR’s President and CEO Dan-Cristian Turturică explained that the two-year break was not a retreat, but a rethink:

“We’ve had time to understand what didn’t work between TVR, the music industry and creators. We know what must change for our selection process to be stronger and our final performance to match the scale of the contest.”

That’s unusually reflective language for a Eurovision press release. In an ecosystem fuelled by patriotic hyperbole, Turturică’s realism feels almost avant-garde.

The ghosts of past glory

Romania has flirted with Eurovision greatness before — Luminița Anghel & Sistem’s electrifying third place in 2005, Paula Seling & Ovi’s duet in 2010, and Mihai Trăistariu’s powerhouse vocals in 2006 still echo across the fandom. But years of erratic selections and institutional fatigue left the country watching from the sidelines.

Now, with JJ’s victory in Basel 2025 bringing the 70th edition to Vienna, TVR wants back in — ideally, with something to prove.

A quieter confidence

This time, there’s no bombast, no promises of guaranteed finals. Just a tone of humility and collaboration — and perhaps a quiet hope that Europe might rediscover Romania’s voice.

Because in a contest obsessed with volume, self-awareness might just be the most subversive act of all.

Source: TVR