After much speculation over the Summer, VRT the Dutch-language Belgian broadcaster has confirmed it will participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2027 taking place in Burgas, Bulgaria next May.
🇧🇪 VRT to internally select Eurovision 2027 artist
Following the announcement of The Netherlands returning to the contest, the Dutch-language Belgian broadcaster have confirmed their intention to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2027. This announcement came in the aftermath of the EBU granting an extension for VRT to make its final decision. The deadline for broadcasters to confirm their participate passed on September 15. The broadcasters have until mid-October to withdraw their participation without facing a financial penalty. Due to the short time, VRT will internally select its representative for Bulgaria next May.
Recently, the EBU made a number of changes to the voting process, composition of the juries, regulations regarding hosting rights and the withdrawal of its main sponsor MoroccanOil.
“We did well to put a lot of pressure on the EBU to make changes possible. We have received a clear commitment from the EBU leadership that changes will be felt. VRT has noticed in recent weeks that the EBU is now taking its members’ concerns seriously and is working on the future of Eurovision.”
Frederik Delaplace, (CEO VRT)
“It was not an easy decision. We have a lot of empathy for those who disagree with this.
Participation is in no way an endorsement or normalization of what is happening in Gaza and the rest of the world. We do note, however, that the EBU is no longer shying away from difficult social and geopolitical issues. That is why VRT wants to continue supporting the search for a restoration of what Eurovision stands for, because the search is not finished.
This decision was taken by the entire Executive Board and Board of Directors and discussed with everyone. We came to the conclusion together that this was the best decision.”
Frederik Delaplace, (CEO VRT)
In the aftermath of this news, opinion reminds divided across the Belgian nation. With support coming from those within the Flemish government. However, there is political opposition from PVDA, Vooruit and Groen, as well as VRT’s own ACOD and ACV trade union.
Who should represent Belgium at Eurovision 2027? Let us know! Keep track of the latest news by following @ESCXTRA on Twitter, @escxtra.bsky.social on Bluesky, @escxtra on Instagram, @escxtra on TikTok, subscribing to YouTube and liking our Facebook page! Also, follow us on Spotify for the latest music from your favourite Eurovision acts.
