As reported by Eurovision DE, Germany will change broadcasters in 2026. Südwestrundfunk (SWR) will replace Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR) as Germany’s official Eurovision Song Contest broadcaster.
SWR to be responsible for Germany’s Eurovision selections
Since 1996, NDR have been the main broadcaster from within the regional ARD network taking charge of Germany’s selections for the Eurovision Song Contest. However, from 2026 onwards this is set to change. For the third time in its history, SWR will be in charge of Germany’s Eurovision selections.
Overseeing this change is ARD who have facilitated the change by allowing SWR to have some involvement in Germany’s road to Basel. This is in the hope that it will ease the transition of Eurovision power from NDR to SWR, ahead of the full takeover in 2026.
The ESC is the ARD’s biggest show event – a symbol of a cosmopolitan Europe and a real campfire moment that inspires millions of people across all generations, whether on classic TV or in the media library. This is largely thanks to the NDR, which has continued to develop the brand with enormous commitment and will now, in collaboration with Stefan Raab, put a sure grand finale into it. I am grateful to the SWR for being willing to take on this important task and lead the ESC successfully into the future.
Christine Strobl (ARD Programme Director)
Furthermore in the announcement, it has been revealed that in the event of victory in Basel, NRD would be the broadcaster responsible for hosting Eurovision 2026.
The NDR has been supporting the ESC with great passion for many years. We won with Lena, but we also often came in lower places. Many strategic considerations were made, but the ESC always remains a little unpredictable – and that’s a good thing. At ARD, we promised ourselves to set priorities. We look for synergies and division of labor. This sometimes means having to let go of things we love – like the ESC. 2025 will be another highlight, I’m sure of that. The goal is clear: Together with Stefan Raab and RTL, we will bring the trophy to Germany.
Frank Beckmann, (NDR Programme Director)
Meanwhile, an SWR spokesperson has taken a more cautious approach to the recent announcement. Maintaining that whilst the contest fits its values and will be a flagship part of its programming, budget concerns remain a priority. Therefore, additional funding will not be provided.
With great anticipation, but at least as much respect, the SWR is taking over the leadership of the Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of the ARD. We are aware that we are following in big footsteps and that the many fans are rightly demanding and critical. The ESC is fantastic entertainment and fits very well with the values and goals of the SWR. Nevertheless, we cannot spend any additional money on it.
Clemens Bratzler, (SWR Programme Director)
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