Eurovision finalists to take the stage amid boycott from Spain, Ireland and others over Israel’s presence

CNN ^ | May 15, 2026 | Issy Ronald

[MinorityRepublican]

Despite Eurovision’s insistence it is apolitical, politics has always been part of the continent-wide song contest, as much a feature as whatever constellation of pyrotechnics and power ballads are on display that year.

But where, previously, politics was somewhat of a punchline, a useful indicator for cynical fans to guess which country might award points to another, this year it is threatening to overshadow the entire contest.

Five countries – Ireland, Spain, Slovenia, the Netherlands and Iceland – are boycotting this year’s event over Israel’s continued participation in it, marking the biggest crisis in the contest’s 70-year history.

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TOPICS: Culture/Society; European Union; Israel
KEYWORDS:

[BenLurkin]

Shani Louk was unavailable for comment.

[dfwgator]

Germany’s entry....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Fk0KCF5lsY

[faithhopecharity]

the neo-nazi ruling elites in Spain and Ireland can GTH as far as Im concerned. they’re disgusting

[dfwgator]

the neo-nazi ruling elites in Spain and Ireland

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Two countries that were buddy-buddy with the Austrian Painter.

[T.B. Yoits]

Two countries that were buddy-buddy with the Austrian Painter.

The staff of Time Magazine have entered the chat.

[faithhopecharity]

that’s an interesting point - both Spain and Eire were friendly with Herr H.

apparently, there’s very little truly new under the sun

[Third Person]

I prefer Australia’s

[SunkenCiv]

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[BigJimSportCamper]

Why is Israel even in this?? They’re not in Europe. Geography anyone?

[FreedomCalls]

Why is Israel even in this?? They’re not in Europe. Geography anyone?

Any country that joins the EBU and pays the EBU membership fees can send contestants. Israel has. So has Australia.

[MinorityRepublican]

'Look Mum, one point': Why does the UK keep getting Eurovision wrong?

Look Mum No Computer - aka Sam Battle - tried his hardest, but Eurovision just wasn't in his grasp

[Yardstick]

Good question. A Google search popped up this article:

https://metro.co.uk/2025/05/15/countries-not-europe-allowed-compete-eurovision-23075428/

Apparently the contest is organized by the European Broadcast Union (EBU) which includes Israel and also Australia. Israel has been competing since the 1970s.