Cyprus will make its return to Eurovision Young Musicians in 2026, ending more than a decade away from the EBU’s classical music contest. The Cypriot broadcaster CyBC confirmed the news on 3 December, announcing that the country will take part in the next edition of the competition, scheduled for 6 June 2026 in Yerevan, Armenia.
In its statement, CyBC said it “announces with joy that Cyprus will participate in Eurovision Young Musicians 2026,” describing the return as an opportunity to strengthen the island’s presence in European classical music and offer young performers a platform among emerging soloists across the continent. The broadcaster highlighted the contest’s long-standing role as one of the EBU’s most recognised stages for young instrumentalists.
CyBC has also launched a national selection to choose the musician who will represent the country in Yerevan. Application procedures, criteria and regulations are available through the broadcaster, which has invited eligible young performers to take part.
A look back at Cyprus in Eurovision Young Musicians
Cyprus has a long, if understated, history in the competition. The country debuted in 1988 and participated regularly through 2010, taking part in almost every edition during that period. Although Cyprus is yet to reach a televised final, its representatives have included several musicians who later established professional careers, such as pianist Manolis Neophytou, who appeared three times in the 1990s, and cellist Andreas Ioannidis, who competed in both 2002 and 2004.
The island last participated in 2010, when pianist Lambis Pavlou represented Cyprus in Vienna. Financial pressures led to CyBC withdrawing from subsequent editions, and the broadcaster had repeatedly cited budget considerations when asked about the possibility of returning.
With today’s announcement, Cyprus becomes the latest country to confirm participation in the revived contest, following the EBU’s renewed framework for Eurovision Young Musicians and Armenia’s upcoming role as host. The 2026 edition will be the first to take place in Yerevan and marks the 22nd edition of the contest.
CyBC encouraged young Cypriot musicians to “make use of this special opportunity” as preparations begin for the national selection and the country’s first appearance in the competition in 12 years.
