Five broadcasters withdraw from Eurovision in biggest boycott in 70 years
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · May 10
Five broadcasters withdraw from Eurovision in biggest boycott in 70 years
8 articles · Updated · BBC.com · May 10
Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Iceland and Slovenia pulled out of this week's 2026 contest in Vienna over Israel's inclusion.
The EBU says 35 countries remain and has cut maximum votes per viewer to 10 after disputes over Israel's strong 2025 public vote and government-linked promotion.
The boycott deepens a wider row over whether countries at war should compete, with some broadcasters also questioning Ukraine's participation and organisers struggling to keep politics out.
As boycotts and controversy grow, is Eurovision's 70-year legacy of unity finished?
Why was Russia banned for its war, while Israel's participation is defended as non-political?
Eurovision 2026 Boycott: Security, Political Divisions, and the Future of Europe’s Biggest Song Contest
Overview
The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna is unfolding amid significant controversy and heightened security, mainly due to Israel's participation. This has led to calls for a boycott and a tense atmosphere, with organizers preparing for possible disruptions and protests. Security measures are exceptionally strict, reflecting Austria's ongoing high alert level, even though there is no specific threat to the event. The situation highlights deep divisions among broadcasters and fans, as several countries have withdrawn in protest, raising concerns about the contest's unity, reputation, and future as a cultural celebration.