ORF Chief Weißmann: Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna Will Not Suffer from Cancellations

"The show will not suffer in any way," said ORF Director General Roland Weißmann, referring to the boycott announced by several broadcasters of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna on Friday to Ö1.

Participants in Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna to be Announced Next Week

After the EBU member broadcasters agreed to a rule change intended to ensure the impartiality of the competition, all member countries that meet the criteria and wish to participate in the music competition are allowed to do so. There was a discussion lasting over two hours on Thursday, and ultimately a grassroots democratic decision was made. As a democrat, he would have accepted a decision against the participation of the Israeli broadcaster KAN, said Weißmann.

Who will ultimately participate or not will be seen on December 10. Until then, he wants to continue discussions and possibly convince someone else to participate, said the ORF head. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and the ESC are likely hardest hit by Spain's boycott. It is one of the five major funding countries of the ESC ("Big Five"). Additionally, Spanish viewers have so far been among the most passionate fans of the competition.

ORF and EBU: No Financial Burden from Withdrawals for Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna

Overall, it would be a "certain financial burden" if several broadcasters did not participate. But this was anticipated and accordingly accounted for in the budget. "We are well budgeted," said Weißmann. According to the EBU, the final number of participating broadcasters has no impact on the planned production budget and the EBU's financial contribution to the ORF. The EBU's contribution to the event has not yet been communicated. However, according to recent official figures, the Spanish broadcaster RTVE paid nearly 335,000 euros for the broadcasting and participation rights in 2024.

EBU Expects 35 Participants in Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna

The EBU expects around 35 participating broadcasters, according to a statement. The EBU plans to publish the final list of participants before Christmas. The number of participating countries varies each year at the ESC. However, in any case, the ESC motto "United by Music" seems somewhat pale in light of the debate triggered by the Gaza war. Weißmann repeatedly emphasized, however, that TV stations, not governments, participate in the competition.

(APA/Red)

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