Eurovision 2026 is here, and whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, there’s plenty to know. From this year’s acts to the moments that made the contest what it is, here’s your essential guide.
How many countries are in Eurovision 2026?
35 countries are competing in Eurovision 2026, with 25 earning a place in the Grand Final. That’s actually two fewer than last year, and the smallest number of participants since 2003 — following a boycott by five countries over Israel’s continued involvement, marking the largest number of boycotting nations since 1970.
Who is representing the UK in Eurovision 2026?
The UK is represented by Sam Battle, performing under his stage name Look Mum No Computer, with the song “Eins, Zwei, Drei”. The track includes lyrics sung partially in German, making it the first UK Eurovision entry in 68 years not to be exclusively in English. Sam is an experimental electronic artist and inventor based in Kent, best known for building his own synthesisers — including one made from Furby toys.
What year was “Space Man” in Eurovision?
Sam Ryder’s beloved “Space Man” was the UK’s entry at Eurovision 2022, where the UK finished second with 466 points — the country’s best result in decades, and the moment that genuinely re-energised the nation’s relationship with the contest.
When did ABBA win Eurovision?
ABBA won Eurovision in 1974 with “Waterloo”, representing Sweden at the contest held in Brighton. It was Sweden’s first Eurovision win and the launchpad for one of the best-selling pop groups of all time. Interestingly, the UK gave ABBA zero points that night — a fact Björn Ulvaeus has brought up more than once.
How many times has Sweden won Eurovision?
Sweden has won Eurovision seven times — tied with Ireland as the most successful country in the contest’s history. Their wins span five decades, with the most recent coming in 2023 when Loreen won with “Tattoo”, making her the first woman ever to win the competition twice, having also triumphed in 2012 with “Euphoria”.
Boy George and San Marino — the unlikely duo of 2026
Boy George represented San Marino alongside Italian vocalist Senhit with the disco-influenced song “Superstar”, co-written by the Culture Club frontman himself. It marked his Eurovision debut at 64. San Marino’s broadcaster has increasingly recruited internationally recognised names to boost the microstate’s profile — Senhit previously performed for them alongside Flo Rida in 2021. Sadly, the duo failed to qualify from the first semi-final, with San Marino not voted through to Saturday’s Grand Final. Heart FM + 2
Delta Goodrem brings Australia to Vienna
Delta Goodrem is representing Australia at this year’s contest with the song “Eclipse”, which she co-wrote herself. The pop powerhouse is a serious contender — bookmakers have her set for at least a top five finish for Australia.
A look back: Eurovision 1989 and the UK nearly winning
With Eurovision 1989 trending — likely thanks to the contest’s 70th anniversary nostalgia — it’s worth revisiting. The 1989 contest was held in Lausanne, Switzerland, with Yugoslavia winning with “Rock Me” by Riva. The UK’s Live Report finished second with “Why Do I Always Get It Wrong?”, losing out by just seven points. It was agonisingly close. Roxette, who were exploding onto the global music scene that same year with “The Look” hitting number one in 25 countries, were a reminder of just how strong Sweden’s pop pedigree was — even when they weren’t at Eurovision.
Where is Eurovision 2026?
The 2026 contest is being held in Vienna, Austria, at the Wiener Stadthalle, with the Grand Final on 16 May 2026. Austria won last year’s contest with JJ’s “Wasted Love”. The show is hosted by Victoria Swarovski, Michael Ostrowski, and Emily Busvine.
UK viewers can watch all three shows live on BBC One and iPlayer.