The last few years for Eurovision have been brutal. Not for the United Kingdom, where we have got used to the dreaded ‘nul points’ and picking up the undesirable position of last place, but for the whole of the contest itself. The recent boycott from countries such as Ireland, the Netherlands, and Spain chronicles a terrible year for Eurovision. Earlier this year, it was reported that more than 70 former Eurovision contestants signed a letter calling on organisers to ban Israel from participating in the 2025 singing contest. What’s more, Russia has been excluded from the song contest since 2022 following the country’s invasion of Ukraine.
I never cared for Eurovision, but due to all this chaos, I’ve become invested in it over the last few years. Could this be the end of Eurovision – or just a stress test? Here are five key reasons why the song contest will struggle to recover from the mass boycott.
1. Less competition
The irony of all these countries boycotting Eurovision is that it increases the chances of Israel actually winning due to how points are tabulated relatively. Eurovision Tel Aviv 2027 could be a likely outcome. After all, Israel came in second place this year, having won the televote.
Notably, Spain is one of the Big Five countries that contribute the most financially to the contest. A founding member is out. The others are France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy. Oh wow. This is messy.
2. Will fans boycott the competition?
There were times when Eurovision used to spark joy, but in recent years, those times now feel so distant. The Eurovision fandom is huge, and this latest round of boycotts could be the final nail in the coffin. Disheartened followers can mean a lack of enthusiasm, which could be detrimental to the contest. So much for unity.
3. More countries could potentially boycott
With four nations confirming their withdrawal, other countries are likely to follow suit. Icelandic broadcaster RÚV said it would hold a meeting next Wednesday to discuss whether Iceland would participate.
Meanwhile, other broadcasters, such as RTP from Portugal and YLE from Finland, have instead confirmed that they will be present in Vienna.
4. Reality show drama
It’s unfortunate that Eurovision, which began in 1956 as a means to bridge cultural divides, has evolved into this. It has become the very thing that is intended to be avoided. Instead of celebrating music and talent, it’s become a reality TV show. It’s not the same as it was 10 years ago, and it’ll probably worsen over time.
5. 2026 will be more tense
It’s too late to postpone or cancel the 2026 contest, which will take place in Vienna, Austria, in May. Each of the past two competitions has somehow become increasingly tense, less enjoyable, and more of a train wreck than the prior Eurovision. It’s one low after the other. At this point, just make another song contest that’s actually about singing. Then everyone is happy.