Spain votes to boycott Eurovision 2026 if Israel competes

Spain is the first of the "Big Five" countries –  also comprising the UK, France, Italy and Germany, so-named because they contribute the most financially, and therefore always have a direct pass to the final – to make announce this position.

Yuval Raphael arriving back in Israel after taking second place in Eurovision 2025 (Image: Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)Flash90

Asked by the JC if it would stage a similar boycott in the UK, the BBC refused to rule out the possibility, saying: “We are aware of the various views and concerns which have been expressed in recent days in relation to next year’s Eurovision.

"At this stage, we will continue to be part of the discussions, led by the European Broadcasting Union, with other members and broadcasters."

It added: “Eurovision has never been led by politics, it has been – and is – a celebration of music and culture that brings people together from across the world.”

Responding to Ireland’s recent announcement that it would boycott the competition if Israel is included, Eurovision Song Contest director Martin Green said: "We understand the concerns and deeply held views around the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. We are still consulting with all EBU Members to gather views on how we manage participation and geopolitical tensions around the Eurovision Song Contest.

"Broadcasters have until mid-December to confirm if they wish to take part in next year's event in Vienna. It is up to each member to decide if they want to take part in the contest and we would respect any decision broadcasters make."