Eurovision Semi-Finals Set to Begin in Vienna – Essential Information for Viewers

It s time for the Eurovision – The 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest kicks off with the semi-finals in Vienna, beginning on Tuesday and culminating in the grand final on Saturday. This year’s competition, hosted in Austria after singer JJ clinched victory with his ballad “Wasted Love,” will see performances from 35 participating nations. However, tensions have been rising due to Israel’s involvement, leading to a record number of countries opting out of the event. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) continues to organize the annual televised spectacle, which has become a cultural touchstone for millions across Europe and beyond.

Originally established in 1956, Eurovision has grown from a modest event between European nations into a global phenomenon. Its format, which blends music, politics, and spectacle, remains a hallmark of the contest. Each year, the EBU invites countries to join, and while participation is widespread, host nations must navigate the challenge of securing the event’s location. This year, Austria’s hosting role is notable not only for its musical contribution but also for the political implications tied to its presence.

The Semi-Final Structure and Participants

This year’s semi-finals will feature two rounds, with the first taking place on Tuesday and the second on Thursday. The initial round will include acts from Croatia, Finland, Georgia, Greece, Portugal, Moldova, Sweden, Belgium, Estonia, Israel, Lithuania, Montenegro, Poland, San Marino, and Serbia. Among these, San Marino’s entry, Senhit, is set to make waves with a collaboration featuring Boy George, who will lend his vocal talents to her song “Superstar.” This partnership highlights the eclectic nature of Eurovision, where artistic experimentation often takes center stage.

The second semi-final will showcase performances from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Luxembourg, Romania, Switzerland, Albania, Australia, Cyprus, Denmark, Latvia, Malta, Norway, and Ukraine. Australia’s return to the competition in 2026 is a testament to its enduring connection with Eurovision, having been invited to join the 60th-anniversary celebrations in 2015. Despite its annual participation, Australia cannot claim the hosting rights if it secures a top spot in the final, a rule that has sparked debate over the balance between artistic merit and national influence.

Voting Rules and the Final Lineup

Each semi-final will determine the top 10 acts, who will join five pre-qualified entries in the grand final. These pre-qualified nations include the 2025 winner, Austria, along with the UK, Italy, France, and Germany. The latter three provide additional financial support to the contest, a role that has been pivotal in ensuring its stability. Despite their involvement in the semi-finals, these countries will still have to broadcast, perform, and vote in one of the rounds, underscoring their commitment to the event’s continuity.

For the 2026 contest, the voting rules have undergone significant changes. Instead of the traditional 20-point system, fans will now be limited to a maximum of 10 votes, which can be cast via phone, SMS, or the official Eurovision app. This shift aims to reduce the impact of government-sponsored campaigns on the outcome, a move that has been met with mixed reactions. While some see it as a fairer approach, others argue it may dilute the contest’s political significance, which has been a recurring theme in recent years.

Israel’s Role and the Boycott Controversy

Israel’s participation in Eurovision has become a flashpoint for controversy, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The country’s involvement has led to a historic boycott, with broadcasters from Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Iceland, and Slovenia withdrawing support. This marks the largest ever withdrawal of nations from the contest, raising questions about the event’s neutrality and its ability to remain a platform for artistic expression amid political tensions.

The controversy reached a peak during last year’s final in Switzerland, where two individuals attempted to disrupt the stage by throwing paint at Israel’s contestant, Yuval Raphael. The incident, which was swiftly contained by the crew, resulted in the perpetrators being arrested. The episode intensified scrutiny over Israel’s presence, especially after Raphael topped the public vote in 2025, finishing second overall when jury votes were factored in. Reports suggested that an Israeli government agency had funded promotional campaigns and used state-run social media accounts to sway public opinion, a tactic that critics argue undermines the contest’s impartiality.

Despite these challenges, Eurovision has maintained its stance on political neutrality. The organization has consistently resisted calls to exclude Israel, emphasizing that the competition remains a celebration of music rather than a political forum. However, the changes to voting rules for 2026 reflect a pragmatic response to the growing influence of state-backed advocacy. Israel hailed the decision as a “victory” over detractors, asserting that it has successfully defended its place in the contest against attempts to stoke animosity.

The Artist Behind the UK Entry

The UK’s pre-qualified act, Look Mum No Computer, has become a focal point of discussion this year. This solo artist, songwriter, and YouTuber is also known as “an inventor of unique musical machines,” a title that underscores their innovative approach to music. Their entry, “Eins, Zwei, Drei,” marks a return to the stage after their earlier work as Sam Battle, frontman of the indie rock band Zibra, which performed at Glastonbury 2015 through BBC Introducing.

“I find it completely bonkers to be jumping on this wonderful and wild journey,” said Look Mum No Computer. “I have always been a massive Eurovision fan, and I love the magical joy it brings to millions of people every year, so getting to join that legacy and fly the flag for the UK is an absolute honour that I am taking very seriously.”

The artist’s creative flair extends beyond music. In Ramsgate, they have established a museum titled “This Museum is (Not) Obsolete,” which features a vintage Game Boy programmed to play a 100-year-old church organ. This quirky exhibit exemplifies the blend of nostalgia and innovation that defines their work, drawing attention to the unique intersection of technology and tradition.

Preparing for the Grand Final

As the semi-finals approach, the focus shifts to Saturday’s grand final, where the final 15 acts will compete for the coveted title. The event will be hosted by TV presenter Victoria Swarovski and actor Michael Ostrowski, who will guide the audience through the spectacle. Meanwhile, Graham Norton will oversee the proceedings, adding his signature humor and charm to the proceedings. The final promises to be a high-energy celebration of music, with the winner set to be announced in a ceremony that has become synonymous with Eurovision’s global appeal.

Eurovision’s ability to adapt to evolving challenges is a testament to its resilience. From the initial semi-finals in Vienna to the final showdown, the contest continues to captivate audiences with its blend of artistry, tradition, and controversy. As the 70th edition unfolds, it serves as a reminder of Eurovision’s unique position as both a cultural event and a microcosm of international dynamics. Whether through the creativity of its participants or the political debates surrounding its format, Eurovision remains a singularly important event in the world of music and entertainment.