Eurovision 2026 First Semi-Final: Finland, Greece, Israel Among Qualifiers Amid Boycott

On May 12, 2026, the first semi-final in Vienna, Austria, saw ten nations secure their spots in the Eurovision final. Despite a boycott related to Israel's involvement amid the Gaza conflict, favorites such as Finland, Greece, and Israel moved forward. Finland's Linda Lampenius (56) and Pete Parkkonen (36) showcased "Liekinheitin," while Greece's Akylas delivered an electro-pop performance, and Israel's Noam Bettan sang in Hebrew, French, and English. Other advancing countries were Belgium, Sweden, Moldova, Serbia, Croatia, Lithuania, and Poland. Estonia, Georgia, Montenegro, Portugal, and San Marino did not qualify. This boycott marks the largest in Eurovision's history, with public broadcasters from Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia opting out. The second semi-final is scheduled for May 14, followed by the final on May 16, featuring 20 qualifiers alongside Austria and the Big Five.