RTVE has officially released the rules for Benidorm Fest 2026, the national selection through which Spain will choose its entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026.
Key dates and submission window
The submission period for artists and composers is now open and will close on September 24. As with previous editions, songs must be original, unpublished, and comply with EBU rules for Eurovision. In addition to the open call, RTVE may invite specific artists, composers, or record labels to participate directly.
As in previous years, Benidorm Fest 2026 will feature two semi-finals and one Grand Final, all held in the city of Benidorm. The results will be determined through a combination of public vote, demoscopic jury, and expert jury.
Artist and song requirements
Artists must be Spanish nationals or legally resident in Spain. Also, songs must not exceed 3 minutes and should be primarily in Spanish or any of Spain’s co-official languages (Catalan, Galician, Basque), while lyrics must not incite hatred, violence, or promote discrimination. Last, but not least, groups may include up to 6 members. RTVE is also encouraging diversity and representation across musical genres and backgrounds.
Further details, including dates for the live shows and the identity of the jurors, will be announced closer to the event.
Spain’s Eurovision journey
Spain debuted at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1961 with Conchita Bautista’s “Estando Contigo”. The country earned its first win in 1968 with Massiel’s “La La La”, and won again in 1969 with Salome’s “Vivo Cantando” in an infamous four-way tie. Although they have yet to win again, Spain earned several 2nd place finishes, most famously with Mocedades’ “Eres tu” in 1973 and Anabel Conde’s “Vuelve conmigo” in 1996.
In 2025, Spain selected Melody. As part of the Big 5, she did not need to qualify for the Grand Final from the semi-finals. At the close of voting, her song “Esa Diva” finished 24th, with a total of 37 points. Of these, 27 points came from the jury, whilst 10 came from the televote.
Are you excited for Benidorm Fest 2026? Who would you like to see compete for Spain’s Eurovision 2026 spot? As always, please let us know what you think by getting involved in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow ‘That Eurovision Site’ on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Threads, tumblr, and Bluesky for more information about Eurovision 2026!
News Source: RTVE
Photo Credit: RTVE
Euan T