Iceland to boycott the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) allowed Israel to take part. The contest will be held in Vienna, Austria, in May.
The decision has already prompted Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Slovenia to withdraw in protest. These countries cited Israel’s actions in the Gaza conflict as the reason for their decision. Iceland had also requested a vote on Israel’s participation. However, the EBU chose not to hold a vote and instead introduced new rules discouraging government interference in the contest.
“It is clear from the public debate in this country and the reaction to the EBU’s decision last week that there will be neither joy nor peace regarding RUV’s participation,” said Stefan Eiriksson, Director General of Iceland’s national broadcaster.
Iceland has never won the Eurovision Song Contest but came second in 1999 and 2009. The annual competition began in 1956 and reaches around 160 million viewers worldwide, according to the EBU.
The EBU’s recent decision has caused widespread discussion across Europe. Iceland to boycott Eurovision reflects growing political tensions surrounding the event. Fans and officials alike have debated the role of politics in the music contest.
Meanwhile, Germany is preparing to select its entry for the 70th Eurovision Song Contest on February 28. The national final, titled Eurovision Song Contest, Das Deutsche Finale 2026, will air on Das Erste at 20:15 CET. Germany’s selection process will involve songwriting camps, evaluations by music experts, an international jury, and audience jurors.
Tina Sikorski, the new Head of Delegation for Germany, expressed excitement about the event. “Music is a language we all understand. The German ESC final will showcase fantastic performances and help us find the perfect act,” she said. Further details regarding Germany’s selection will be announced in January.
Iceland to boycott Eurovision 2026 marks a significant moment in the contest’s history, highlighting the influence of political conflicts on global cultural events.
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