Eurovision 2026 starts tonight - boycotted by five countries due to Israeli participation

The first semifinal of the Eurovision Song Contest will be held tonight in Vienna.

Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Iceland are boycotting this year's Eurovision Song Contest in protest because organisers allowed Israel to participate.

Israel's Representative

During this week, several pro-Palestinian demonstrations have been scheduled in the Austrian capital, and security measures have increased.

Police officers from all over Austria are stationed in Vienna, with the support of forces from neighboring Germany.

The additional concern was caused by the case of a 21-year-old Austrian who was convicted of planning an attack at the Taylor Swift concert in Vienna in 2024.35 countries are fighting for victory.

In the first semifinal in the Wiener Stadthalle Hall Hall, 15 performers will perform, among them Israeli singer Noah Bettan, who is trying to secure a seat in the final with the song"Michelle".

Tuesday's 10 best and 10 others from the second semifinal, which will be held Thursday on May 14th, pass to the finals.

Great Britain, France, Germany and Italy have already secured a final seat as the biggest sponsors of the race, while Austria is directly in the finals as winner and host of last year.

Among the favourites for a high ranking, Finland stands out with the song"Liekinheitin", while also drawing attention to Greek representative Akylas, Portuguese bandidos do Cante and Senhit from San Marino.

The European Broadcasting Union, following last year's allegations of vote manipulation, changed voting rules and halved the maximum number of votes per person to 10 with additional measures against suspicious or co-ordinated voting. /Telegraphy/