Spain’s public broadcaster RTVE has voted to withdraw from Eurovision 2026 in Vienna if Israel is allowed to participate, escalating a fast-moving crisis for the 70th edition. The decision passed RTVE’s board by 10 votes to 4, with one abstention, and includes not broadcasting the show should Israel remain in the line-up.
A growing bloc of potential withdrawals
Spain becomes the fifth broadcaster to publicly link participation to Israel’s status, following moves in recent days by the Netherlands (AVROTROS), Ireland (RTÉ), and Slovenia (RTV SLO). Several international reports also count Iceland (RÚV) among those prepared to pull out; RÚV has stated it may withdraw and is awaiting the EBU’s decision. Together, these positions put unprecedented pressure on organisers ahead of the milestone contest in Vienna.
Why this matters: Spain is the first member of the “Big Five” (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom) to take such a step. Those broadcasters are key financiers of the Contest and automatically qualify for the Grand Final — so any Big Five withdrawal would be symbolically and operationally significant.
EBU response and timeline
The Eurovision Song Contest Reference Group says a decision on Israel’s participation is pending and that it has “taken note of the concerns expressed by several broadcasters.” Broadcasters have been given until mid-December to confirm participation while consultations continue.
How we got here
Tensions around Israel’s participation intensified through 2024–2025 amid the Gaza war. Israel competed in Basel 2025, where Yuval Raphael finished second; demonstrations took place around the event. Austria’s JJ won that year and subsequently joined voices urging the EBU to reassess Israel’s place in 2026. The EBU previously excluded Russia in 2022 following its invasion of Ukraine — a precedent frequently cited by politicians and broadcasters pressing for action now.
What’s next for Vienna 2026
Host city & dates: Vienna, Wiener Stadthalle (70th edition) — May 2026.
Participation picture: If Spain and others hold their line, the 2026 roster could shrink or be reshaped quickly once the EBU issues a final ruling on Israel. Expect a flurry of statements from national broadcasters as the December deadline approaches.
Should the EBU exclude Israel, allow it under conditions, or hold the line and let broadcasters decide individually? And if withdrawals mount, how should Eurovision safeguard both its non-political ethos and its duty of care to participants and fans? Tell us in the comments below.
Sources: RTVE / Reuters
