Tensions over Israel’s participation in the contest flared up earlier in the week, when artist Noam Bettan performed pop-ballad “Michelle” to audible boos and chants during the semifinal. Four audience members had to be removed for “disruptive behavior,” according to organizers.
It was Bulgaria’s first victory in the competition, having debuted in 2005. Bulgaria was returning in 2026 after a four-year break from the contest due to financial constraints at the public broadcaster.
Bulgaria’s booming dance anthem was a high-energy crowd pleaser in Vienna, but wasn’t originally tipped to win, up against more favored entries from Finland or Australia.
The countries sitting out this year (Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Iceland) said their decision was due to Israel’s war in Gaza — which was sparked by a violent attack on Israel by Hamas militants — and the resulting humanitarian crisis it has triggered.
Demonstrators also marched through Vienna on Saturday protesting Israel’s inclusion in the contest, chanting “boycott Israel, boycott ESC [Eurovision Song Contest]” and “no stage for genocide.”
Later Saturday night, a separate protest against Israel’s participation resulted in 14 people being arrested, Vienna police confirmed. Police said the individuals were arrested because they would not remove masks that concealed their identity.