politics
Spain Withdraws From 2026 Eurovision Song Contest
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez released an official video on Friday announcing Spain's withdrawal from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna. The decision follows the European Broadcasting Union's approval of Israel's participation in the event. Sánchez accused Israel of genocide and stated that Spain was taking a stand against it.
May 16, 7:20 PM·1m read1 source
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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez released an official video on Friday explaining Spain's decision to withdraw from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest scheduled for Vienna. In the video, Sánchez sharply criticized the European Broadcasting Union for its decision to allow Israel to participate.
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He accused Israel of genocide and said Spain was taking a stand. The withdrawal marks Spain's formal exit from the annual international song competition organized by the European Broadcasting Union. Spain had previously competed in the event, which features entries from participating broadcasters across Europe and other regions.
Background on the Decision The European Broadcasting Union had confirmed Israel's eligibility to compete in the 2026 edition despite ongoing regional conflicts. Sánchez's video statement directly addressed the organization's ruling and outlined the Spanish government's position on the matter.
The prime minister spoke during a plenary session of the lower house of the Spanish parliament in Madrid on May 22, 2024, though the withdrawal announcement came on Friday. The video served as an official explanation for the boycott. Spain's move removes one participating broadcaster from the contest, which draws millions of viewers worldwide each year.
The 2026 competition will proceed in Vienna with the remaining confirmed participants.
