Nederlands
English
French
Deutsch
Espaniol
Portugese
Eurovision 2026 Host City Shortlist Announced
After a competitive bidding process, Austrian broadcaster ORF has revealed the final shortlist for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 host city. Vienna and Innsbruck are the final contenders vying to host Europe's biggest music event in May 2026.
The Selection Process
ORF launched the bidding process on June 2, 2025, following Austria's victory at Eurovision 2025. Initial interest came from multiple cities including Graz, Linz, Wels, and Oberwart. However, only Vienna and Innsbruck submitted formal bids by the July 4 deadline.
ORF director Roland Weißmann emphasized that venue suitability and airport accessibility were critical factors in the selection. "We need infrastructure capable of handling 10,000+ visitors daily and seamless international connections," Weißmann stated.
The Final Contenders
Vienna
Vienna proposes using the Wiener Stadthalle (capacity 16,000), which previously hosted Eurovision in 2015. Austria's capital highlights its experience hosting major events and extensive hotel infrastructure. Vienna last hosted when Conchita Wurst's victory brought the contest to Austria.
Innsbruck
Innsbruck's bid centers around the Olympiahalle (capacity 10,000), renovated for the 2020 Youth Olympics. The Tyrolean city emphasizes its Alpine setting and compact, walkable city center. This marks Innsbruck's first Eurovision bid.
What Happens Next
ORF will conduct final evaluations through July, with an official host city announcement expected by August 8, 2025. The winning city must demonstrate:
- 10,000+ seat venue with modern broadcasting facilities
- 4,000+ hotel rooms within 90 minutes travel
- International airport with 100+ daily flights
- €20-25 million funding commitment
Provisional dates for Eurovision 2026 are May 12/19 (Semi-Final 1), May 14/21 (Semi-Final 2), and May 16/23 (Grand Final).
Participating Countries
Early confirmations include Albania (Festivali i Këngës), Denmark (Dansk Melodi Grand Prix), Finland (UMK), and Germany. Greece's ERT board has approved participation though their selection format remains unannounced.
This will be Austria's third time hosting after 1967 and 2015. The 70th anniversary contest is expected to feature special commemorative elements celebrating Eurovision history.
