The EBU has confirmed that participation fees for the competing broadcasters will not be increased to cover the costs of withdrawing broadcasters. This comes as host broadcaster ORF confirms its budget and production for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 will not be impacted.
🇦🇹 No price rise for Eurovision 2026 participation fees
Following the shock withdrawals of Ireland, Netherlands, Spain and Slovenia, there had been concerns among the Eurovision community that the participation fee that all broadcasters are required to pay to the EBU, would increase to cover the costs of the lower membership.
However, the EBU and the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 host broadcaster ORF have allayed those fears. Both confirming that the participation fees will not increase at this time. In a statement received by NRK, the EBU confirmed their position:
“Preliminary fees were communicated to interested member broadcasters in September. We can confirm that no broadcaster will pay more to participate in next year’s contest as a result of countries withdrawing.
Although a small number of member broadcasters may not join us in 2026, we expect around 35 broadcasters to participate.”
EBU
Meanwhile, Eurovision 2026 host broadcaster ORF have stated the production values of the live shows will not suffer in terms of budget costs. Despite the loss of several broadcasters. The number of participating broadcasters has no effect on the production budget or the financial contribution provided by the EBU to the hosting broadcaster.
“The show will by no means suffer. Overall, it would be a certain financial burden if several broadcasters did not participate. But we expected it and took it into account in the budget. We’re well budgeted.”
ORF Director General Roland Weißmann
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