Vienna is preparing for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, which will take place next May. According to ORF Director General Roland Weißmann, more than 43 countries are expected to participate — which would set a new record. He also commented on Israel’s possible participation.
The decision on Israel’s participation is still pending. But the preparations for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna are already running at full speed, and the search for volunteers is about to begin. Despite cost‑cutting efforts, ORF is promising a record show.
ORF Director General Roland Weißmann said:
“We are diplomatically campaigning behind the scenes for as many EBU member countries as possible. And I am optimistic that we will achieve a record number of participating countries.”
He added that if more than 43 countries take part, that would set a new Eurovision record.
Whether Israel will join in 2026 will be decided at the EBU General Assembly on 4–5 December. Weißmann underlined Austria’s position: the Song Contest is organized by public-service broadcasters, not by countries — so, in his view, “Israel naturally belongs to Eurovision.”
Some countries that had previously dropped out are now confirmed to be returning — Bulgaria, Romania, and Moldova. Weißmann also remarked on interest from Canada, exclaiming: “Hurra, hurra, Canada!”
Tickets, Volunteers and Stand‑ins
- Tickets: Around 90,000 tickets are planned to go on sale. Registration begins on 24 November via the EBU and ORF websites.
- Volunteers: ORF needs about 800 volunteers to welcome guests and act “as our voice to the outside,” according to Song Contest Executive Producer Michael Krön. Registration opens soon on eurovision.ORF.at. They’re looking for people with social skills and, ideally, language competencies.
- Stand-ins & Casting: ORF is also seeking dancers to serve as stand-ins during rehearsals. A casting event will take place 18–20 December.
Austria’s National Selection (“Vienna Calling”)
The Austrian national final is scheduled for 20 February 2026, hosted by Alice Tummler and César Sampson. A professional jury and 50% audience vote will decide.
The search for Austria’s Eurovision entry is already underway. From over 30 candidates, a first casting is happening this weekend to fill 12 spots in Vienna Calling.
Source ORF
About Post Author
