Eurovision Song Contest 2026 Faces Controversy Over Israel's Participation

The Eurovision Song Contest returns for its most controversial edition, with the competition beginning Tuesday in Vienna. Israel's participation has prompted five countries—Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain—to withdraw. The Post's traditional Eurovision podcast also returns, this year titled 'contrariato' (annoyed). The first preparatory episode, 'Chi c'è c'è, chi non c'è ha le sue ragioni' (Those who are there are there, those who aren't have their reasons), features Matteo Bordone, Stefano Vizio, Giulia Balducci, and Luca Misculin. They address the 'elephant in the room,' discuss changes in rules and context, and talk about the Kneecap, Gaelic, Greek verbs, plagiarism, and expectations for some contestants. The two semifinals are scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, and Thursday, May 14, with the final on Saturday, May 16. Subsequent podcast episodes will be released on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday around lunchtime. The podcast is available to subscribers on the Post's website or app.