The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest is heating up as ten countries have secured their place in the grand final following the first semi-final held on Tuesday in Vienna, Austria. Among those advancing are acts from Israel, Finland, and Greece, despite a disruption during Israel's performance by protesters shouting "stop the genocide."
Qualifiers from the First Semi-Final
The ten countries voted through are:
- Greece: Akylas - "Ferto"
- Finland: Linda Lampenius x Pete Parkkonen - "Liekinheitin"
- Belgium: ESSYLA - "Dancing on the Ice"
- Sweden: FELICIA - "My System"
- Moldova: Satoshi - "Viva, Moldova!"
- Israel: Noam Bettan - "Michelle"
- Serbia: LAVINA - "Kraj Mene"
- Croatia: LELEK - "Andromeda"
- Lithuania: Lion Ceccah - "Sólo Quiero Más"
- Poland: ALICJA - "Pray"
Italy and Germany, along with France and the UK (who will perform in the second semi-final on Thursday), automatically qualify as members of the "Big Four" due to their financial contributions. Spain withdrew in protest over Israel's participation, while host nation Austria is guaranteed a spot.
Memorable Moments
The first semi-final featured a surprise appearance by British pop star Boy George, who joined San Marino's entry SENHIT for her song "Superstar." However, San Marino did not receive enough votes to advance. Hollywood actor Will Ferrell also made a cameo, referencing his 2020 Eurovision film. Austrian hosts Victoria Swarovski and Michael Ostrowski performed a skit with Australia's 2025 entrant Go-Jo.
The second semi-final on Thursday will feature countries including Romania, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Australia, and Ukraine competing for the remaining spots. The grand final is set for Saturday, 16 May.
