The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 final is set for Saturday 16 May, with 25 acts competing for the crown. So far, 15 countries have secured their places: last year's winners Austria, the 'Big Four' (France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom), and the 10 qualifiers from Tuesday's semi-final. Spain, usually part of the Big Five, has withdrawn this year, along with Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland.
The second semi-final on Thursday saw five more countries eliminated, leaving 10 spots still open for the grand final. The public voted to decide which acts progressed. The full line-up for Saturday's finale will be announced after the semi-final results are confirmed.
The 2026 contest has been overshadowed by controversy over Israel's participation amid the Gaza war. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) voted in December 2025 to introduce new rules against disproportionate song promotion but did not vote on Israel's exclusion. The EBU stated that a large majority of members agreed no further vote was needed and that the contest would proceed with additional safeguards.
In response, Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland announced boycotts. Irish broadcaster RTÉ said participation was 'unconscionable given the appalling loss of lives in Gaza.' The BBC, which broadcasts the contest in the UK, supported the EBU's decision, calling it about 'enforcing the rules and being inclusive.'
The final will air live from Vienna, Austria, on BBC One from 8pm. Graham Norton will provide commentary, while Rylan Clark and Sara Cox contribute on BBC Radio 2. The show will be presented by Victoria Swarovski and Michael Ostrowski.
