For the first time in a decade, Austria is bringing back a national selection show to determine its entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, marking a major shift from the internal selection model used since 2017.
In an exclusive interview with Kurier, ORF Program Director Stefanie Groiss-Horowitz confirmed:
“After a long hiatus, there will be a national selection show again. A big TV evening with lots of audience participation.”
While the exact date of the televised selection show has yet to be announced, this marks the first officially confirmed national final since 2016, offering the Austrian public a direct role in choosing the next Eurovision act.
A Major TV Event with Audience Engagement
The new national final is set to be a large-scale television event, with strong emphasis on audience participation. The format is expected to revive Austria’s Eurovision spirit and give fans a voice in shaping the nation’s musical future on the international stage.
The shift comes after Austria’s recent Eurovision victory in 2025 with JJ, who was selected internally. ORF had previously indicated it would continue internal selection, making this pivot to a public selection all the more surprising — and exciting.
More Than Just One Show: A Full Series Planned
Groiss-Horowitz also announced that ORF is preparing a “major series of shows” in the lead-up to Eurovision 2026. She noted:
“The 70 years of its existence provide a good template for this. It will feature top-notch celebrities from Germany and abroad.”
These programs will include:
High-profile entertainment specials A documentary series exploring the rich history and evolution of the Eurovision Song Contest Panel and guest segments with notable personalities from across Europe
Hosting Decision: Vienna or Innsbruck?
As Austria prepares to host Eurovision 2026, the location of the main event is still being finalized. According to Groiss-Horowitz, a decision between Vienna and Innsbruck is expected by the end of the summer.
Meanwhile, the selection of presenters for Austria’s national final and Eurovision broadcast will be announced by the end of the year.
ORF’s Executive Producer Michael Krön described the race to host the contest as still “open,” with both cities actively competing for the honor.
A New Era for Austria at Eurovision
With the return of a national final, Austria is set to enter a new chapter in its Eurovision journey — one that blends public enthusiasm, entertainment spectacle, and historical reflection as the contest celebrates its 70th anniversary.
Fans across Europe will now be watching closely to see how Austria’s reinvigorated selection process shapes its 2026 entry — and who might follow in the footsteps of recent champion JJ.
Stay tuned to Eurovisionstars for updates on the show’s format, participants, and official date as they’re announced!
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