Live – Eurovision 2026: Follow our coverage of the world’s greatest song contest

The Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest officially begins in a few hours with the fun and festivities expected to be more camp and controversial than ever before as it once again becomes a stage for pomp, pageantry and politics.

What was born as a festival to unite Europe after the World War II has become a battleground for countries using its spotlight to make a stand on political agendas.

The 70th edition of the song contest being held in Vienna will already go down in history as perhaps the most divisive competition after months of protest over Israel’s participation and its war on Gaza led to five countries choosing to boycott the proceedings.

There’s been tight security around the venue and across the Austrian capital with pre-show demonstrations erupting. Israel remains one of the favourites along with Finland’s fiery fiddler Linda Lampenius and singer Pete Parkkonen.

But after an impressive performance in Thursday’s second semi-final, will an underdog like Australia’s pop star Delta Goodrem finally take the competition down under?

A fractured ‘Big 5’: countries not participating in 2026

Spain is not the only country to have stepped aside, although it is the biggest as it makes key contribution to the organisation. As a member of the ‘Big 5’, Spain guarantees the economic viability of the contest, so its absence generates a financial and audience hole difficult for the EBU to fill.

• Ireland: After years of protests by its representatives (such as Bambie Thug in 2024), the Irish broadcaster RTÉ has opted to withdraw in protest at Israel’s participation, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
• Netherlands: Public broadcaster ‘AVROTROS’ officially withdrew in protest, joining the boycott of the event in Vienna. However, unlike the Spanish public broadcaster, the Dutch broadcasters ‘NOS’ and ‘NTR’ will broadcast the competition.
• Iceland: The management of ‘RÚV, the Icelandic public broadcaster,’ took the decision to withdraw from the competition due to internal division and social pressure over the presence of Israel in the competition. Stefan Eiriksson, director general of the public broadcaster said: “In the current situation, there is no peace and joy associated with this contest. Therefore, first and foremost, we are withdrawing as long as the situation remains the same.
• Slovenia: Public broadcaster ‘RTV SLO’ will replace its coverage of the Vienna festival with special programming dedicated to Palestine.

Whatever happens, Euronews Culture will be here for every step, bringing you the most most striking looks, unhinged, but fairly balanced commentary, and those all-important league tables of points…