Eurovision Song Contest arrives with 35 countries in Vienna
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · May 8
Eurovision Song Contest arrives with 35 countries in Vienna
11 articles · Updated · BBC.com · May 8
Semi-finals begin Tuesday in the Austrian capital, with the field at its smallest since 2003 after a partial boycott over Israel's participation.
The 2026 line-up mixes spectacle and controversy, from Boy George's guest appearance for San Marino to disputed lyrics in entries from Romania and Cyprus.
Bookmakers favour Finland, while Australia, Greece and France are among strong contenders in a contest balancing pop extravagance with political tensions.
As a major boycott divides Eurovision, will new voting rules or political tensions ultimately crown the winner?
With songs labeled 'dangerous' and others protesting work, is artistic freedom clashing with modern social values?