Following reports from numerous broadcasters over potential withdrawal from the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 next May, the EBU’s Director of Eurovision, Martin Green (CBE) has issued a statement to Danish media.
Martin Green responds to reports of broadcaster withdrawals
Over recent weeks, tensions between the participating broadcasters of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 and the EBU who organise the competition, have increased. Several broadcasters, including AVROTROS, Rai, RTÉ, RTVE, RTVSLO, RÚV have proposed the possibility of Eurovision withdrawal if Israel and its broadcaster KAN remain in the contest next May in Vienna, Austria. This comes following the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Along with the concerns the broadcasters have raised with the EBU for the previous two contests over Israel’s participation and televoting.
Since these reports, the Director of Eurovision, Martin Green (CBE) has responded with a statement received by Danish national broadcaster DR.
“We understand the concerns and deep-seated views around the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. We are still consulting all EBU members to gather views on how we handle participation and geopolitical tensions surrounding the Eurovision Song Contest.
The broadcasters have until mid-December to confirm whether they want to attend next year’s event in Vienna. It is up to each member to decide whether they wish to enter the competition and we will respect any decision that broadcasters make.”
Recently the EBU confirmed the deadline extension for broadcasters to withdraw from Eurovision 2026 without taking a financial penalty. The new deadline is mid-December instead of the usual October date. A consultation meeting with broadcasters is expected to take place in early December. The full list of participants is expected to be released after this in late-December. Eurovision 2026 will take place in Vienna, Austria next May with two Semi-Finals on May 12 and 14. The Grand Final will be held on May 16.
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