RAI has officially confirmed that Italy will take part in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2026, continuing the country’s participation in the competition for another year.
The announcement came during RAI Kids’ presentation at Cartoons on the Bay, where the broadcaster unveiled its children’s programming for autumn 2026. Among the updates, RAI highlighted its continued commitment to the Junior Eurovision Song Contest format, confirming that preparations for Italy’s 2026 entry are already underway.
Italy has been a consistent presence in the competition since its debut victory in 2014. In recent years, RAI has used the contest as a platform to showcase emerging young talent from across the country, with its entries regularly finishing in the top half of the scoreboard.
Details regarding Italy’s 2026 selection process have not yet been revealed. In previous editions, RAI has opted for an internal selection, choosing both the artist and song behind closed doors. It remains to be seen whether the broadcaster will continue this approach for the 2026 contest.
Source: Rai
Italy in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest+
Italy debuted in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest in 2014. Their first and only win to date was on their debut when Vincenzo Cantiello came in 1st place with 159 points with his song “Tu primo grande amore”. Their worst result was in 2015 when twins Chiara & Martina came 16th with 34 points with their song “Viva”. Since their debut, Italy has participated in every contest except for 2020.