Spain will not participate in Eurovision 2026 if Israel is allowed to compete. RTVE, Spain’s national public broadcaster, approved the move today at the proposal of chairman José Pablo López, making Spain the first Big Five broadcaster to take this position.
The broadcaster’s governing body approved the agreement by absolute majority, with 10 votes in favour, four against and one abstention. RTVE also stated that the decision will not affect the preparations for Benidorm Fest 2026.
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The decision adds pressure ahead of the EBU’s General Assembly on 4–5 December in Geneva, where Israel’s eligibility is expected to be discussed. The EBU has extended the window for broadcasters to confirm or withdraw participation without penalty until mid-December.
Spain’s government has publicly backed a hard line. Culture Minister Ernest Urtasun said in an interview on RNE on Monday:
– We have to ensure that Israel does not participate in the next edition of Eurovision.
Other broadcasters’ stance
Several public broadcasters have already set conditions for 2026:
Ireland (RTÉ) formal statement: Ireland will not take part if Israel competes. Netherlands (AVROTROS) official announcement: no participation as long as Israel is admitted by the EBU. Slovenia (RTVSLO) participation under review and contingent on EBU decisions; broadcaster has linked its decision to EBU moves on Israel and voting transparency. Iceland (RÚV) has reserved the right to withdraw; senior staff say it is unlikely Iceland will participate if Israel does.
Meanwhile, the EBU has denied reports that Israel had been asked to compete under a neutral flag or withdraw temporarily, saying no such decision has been made.
The EBU’s General Assembly on 4–5 December 2025 will be crucial. Broadcasters then have until mid-December to finalize their stance for Vienna 2026 without financial penalty. Spain’s decision means that, unless the EBU bars Israel, RTVE is prepared to sit out Eurovision 2026.
Spain in the Eurovision Song Contest
Spain has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest 64 times since their debut in 1961. They have won twice: in 1968 (La, La, La…) and the following year, 1969 (Vivo Cantando).
Spain 1969: Salomé – “Vivo Cantando”
Spain is a member of the “Big-5,” which means they don’t have to go through the Semi-final round and are automatically qualified for the Grand Final. Spain is also a member of “club zero” because they have managed to get zero points 3 times. They have finished in last place 5 times in Eurovision history, the latest coming in 2017.
Spain 1969: Salomé – “Vivo Cantando”
Spain’s best-known song is probably “Eres Tú” from Eurovision 1973 (2nd place, only four points away from victory).