The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 will take place in Austria in May! Following the impressive victory of JJ with his song "Wasted Love" at the ESC 2025 in Basel, Austria will host for the third time – after the 1967 and 2015 editions.
The ORF has announced that invitations to apply will be sent to all federal states and interested cities starting May 26, 2025. The selection of the host city is expected to be completed by July 2025.
Several cities have already expressed their interest:
- Vienna: The capital, which was already a host in 2015, wants to host the ESC once again.
- Graz: Considering an application with Stadthalle Graz as a possible venue.
- Innsbruck: Planning to apply with the Olympiahalle.
- Wels and Linz: Considering a joint application, with the ESC to take place in a new hall in Wels.
- Oberwart: Has expressed interest in hosting the ESC.
- St. Pölten: Wants to nominate with the VAZ St. Pölten as the venue.
Other cities like Salzburg and Klagenfurt have decided against applying due to infrastructure and budget constraints.
The final decision on the host city is expected to be made in July 2025. It is clear: ESC 2026 will thrill music fans across Europe with two exciting semi-finals and a grand finale.
Look forward to an unforgettable show in Austria – it will be a real highlight!