Norway has confirmed that it will be taking part in next year’s Eurovision Song Contest. At the same time, broadcaster NRK has opened a submissions window for songs ahead of the 2026 Contest.
NRK looking for “uniqueness”
The country’s official confirmation came in an email given to ESCToday, reaffirming NRK and Norway’s commitment to the Contest. This comes despite the ongoing controversies surrounding the competition. NRK itself has requested the EBU to look into changing the voting system ahead of next year’s Contest.
NRK officially opened its song submission window on the same day. All rules for next year’s Melodi Grand Prix remain the same following this previous edition, with the artist requiring to turn 16 by the 1st of January, 2026. Speaking on what the broadcaster was looking for, NRK’s music manager Tarjei Strøm is looking for a variety of different songs:
We are looking for uniqueness that can resonate widely, a song that only sticks with us once, that we and the rest of Europe will just want to hear over and over again.
We are looking for artists who are ready to throw themselves into the MGP and ESC adventure with all their heart, and who, together with a very dedicated MGP editorial team behind them, can take Europe by storm!
To submit a song to Norway’s national selection, you can enter via the form here.
Norway’s Eurovision journey
The Scandinavian nation made its debut in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1960, with Nora Brockstedt and the song “Voi Voi”, which placed 4th. Since their debut, they have participated 62 times, and made the Grand Final 59 of these. In addition, Norway has won the competition three times – in 1985, 1995, and 2009.
Norway’s latest Eurovision participation saw them being represented by Kyle Alessandro with the song “Lighter”. After qualifying for the final, Norway placed 18th in the Grand Final, receiving 89 points, 22 of which from the jury and 67 from televoters.
What do you think of Norway’s confirmation? Who would you like to se submit a song? 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: NRK
Photo Credit: Alma Bengtsson / EBU
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