Spain Names César Vallejo as New Eurovision Head of Delegation: A Creative Mind with a Mission

While other countries are busy choosing their entries, Spain is moving its Eurovision chess pieces behind the scenes. Enter César Vallejo – no, not the Peruvian poet, but the newly appointed Head of Delegation for Spain at Eurovision, ready to steer the RTVE ship through Europe’s glitziest musical waters.

Vallejo, currently Deputy Director of Premieres at RTVE Play, isn’t exactly a newcomer to the game. In fact, he’s already been behind the scenes of the Benidorm Fest, which has become Spain’s main springboard to Eurovision – part national selection, part musical gladiator arena.

His appointment comes at a critical time for Spain’s Eurovision ambitions. The goal? To create a formula that marries artistic excellence with international impact – and maybe, just maybe, avoid being the country everyone politely claps for at 0 points.

“We’re striving for balance: artistic quality, global resonance, and collective pride,” Vallejo declared. Translation: we want to slay.

Out with Bordas, in with Vision

Vallejo succeeds Ana María Bordas, who now chairs the all-powerful Reference Group of the EBU – Eurovision’s version of the UN Security Council, minus the vetoes and with more sequins. She had led the Spanish delegation since 2017, enduring the ups and (let’s face it, mostly) downs with dignity and decorum.

Why César?

Vallejo brings to the table a rich background in TV production, live music specials, documentaries, and digital innovation. He’s won prestigious awards like the King of Spain International Journalism Prize and the Iris Prize. He’s also one of the architects behind Spain’s revamped approach to the Benidorm Fest, transforming it from regional relic to national obsession.

Oh, and he’s been to Eurovision – not as a fan waving a flag, but as a strategic force, covering everything from staging to digital narrative. In other words, he speaks fluent Eurovisionese.

What Next?

Spain’s 2026 journey will reflect this new era of unified vision. Vallejo promises to treat both the process and its protagonists – the artists – with care, rigour and a sense of creative freedom.

“We want Eurovision to be a meaningful, enriching experience for everyone involved,” he says. In plain English: no more sending someone into the arena with a fog machine and crossed fingers.

RTVE is now doubling down on quality, diversity and long-term strategy. And while winning is never guaranteed (just ask the UK), Spain is showing that it’s no longer here just to make up the numbers.

Let’s hope Vallejo has packed both ambition and aspirin – the road to Eurovision is fabulous, but bumpy.

Source: RTVE