Slovenia Set to Sit Out Eurovision 2026? RTVSLO Says “Probably Not”
With Vienna gearing up to host the 70th Eurovision Song Contest next May, Slovenia’s participation now hangs by a thread. Speaking at the most recent RTVSLO Assembly meeting, Ksenija Horvat, the broadcaster’s director, revealed that Slovenia is “probably” not going to compete at Eurovision 2026 — and the reasons are layered with frustration, politics, and finances.
“We’ve Been Ignored” — RTVSLO’s Growing Frustration with the EBU
RTVSLO had been developing a brand-new Saturday night entertainment show to serve as the basis for selecting Slovenia’s act for Vienna. But according to Horvat, the plan may be scrapped entirely.
“We were working on a concept to showcase young, fresh performers, leading up to Ema, our national final,” she explained. “But without clear communication from the European Broadcasting Union on the rules of participation, we can’t justify moving forward.”
Horvat accused the EBU of ignoring Slovenia’s repeated requests for dialogue on the contest’s evolving regulations.
“We’ve sent detailed proposals and raised concerns several times, especially about participation rules, but we’ve been ignored twice. If we can’t agree on a fair framework with the EBU, Slovenia won’t be there. It’s as simple as that.”
Eurovision Politics: Israel at the Heart of the Debate
One of RTVSLO’s major sticking points relates to Israel’s participation in Eurovision amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. In May, Horvat sent a formal letter to the EBU demanding “concrete steps” and transparency around the issue.
“Public concern has grown significantly, both in Slovenia and across Europe,” she wrote, calling for a wider discussion on Israel’s involvement.
In response, the EBU promised an “open and constructive” debate, which reportedly took place during its General Assembly in July. While the organisation assured members it would keep them informed, RTVSLO claims there has been little follow-up action since.
The Clock Is Ticking
The EBU recently extended the deadline for broadcasters to confirm participation without penalty to mid-December, giving RTVSLO a few more months to make a final decision. But unless the union addresses Slovenia’s concerns directly, the country looks increasingly likely to withdraw from Vienna 2026.
Slovenia wouldn’t be alone in its hesitation. Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS has also voiced concerns over “geopolitical influences on the contest” and is still deliberating its participation.
The Clock Is Ticking
The EBU recently extended the deadline for broadcasters to confirm participation without penalty to mid-December, giving RTVSLO a few more months to make a final decision. But unless the union addresses Slovenia’s concerns directly, the country looks increasingly likely to withdraw from Vienna 2026.
Slovenia wouldn’t be alone in its hesitation. Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS has also voiced concerns over “geopolitical influences on the contest” and is still deliberating its participation.
Source: RTSLO
