Overview
- Austria’s ORF said all official flags meeting safety rules will be permitted and that it will not use artificial applause to mask any booing during Israel’s performance.
- The European Broadcasting Union confirmed 35 participating countries after withdrawals by Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain.
- Bulgaria, Romania and Moldova are returning to the contest, keeping the field at 35 compared with 37 entries in 2025.
- Rule changes for 2026 include the return of jury voting in the semi-finals and enhanced systems to detect and prevent coordinated or fraudulent voting.
- Artist actions have escalated, with 2024 winner Nemo and 1994 winner Charlie McGettigan saying they will return their trophies, as experts warn the dispute poses a serious crisis for the contest.