Spain’s national selection for Eurovision is getting a production revamp. After four editions, RTVE has officially handed over the reins to a new company.
SoldOut confirmed as new producer
According to RTVE, SoldOut will be the new production company behind Benidorm Fest 2026, taking over from Boomerang TV, which has been involved with the show since its launch in 2022. The change, confirmed by Eurovision-Spain, is part of a broader effort by RTVE to refresh the look and feel of its national final.
Known for its work on Junior Eurovision 2024, held in Madrid, and the Latin Grammy Awards 2023 in Seville, SoldOut brings a reputation for large-scale event production and innovative visuals. RTVE’s decision highlights its ambition to elevate the festival’s format ahead of Eurovision 2026.
Big changes ahead for Benidorm 2026
Benidorm Fest 2026 is also seeing a wave of changes behind the scenes. The new Artistic Director is Sergio Jaén, who will be working alongside Executive Producer José María Payueta, Director Mercè Llorens, and Visual Director Ari Levelä.
Submission process now open
The song submission window for Benidorm Fest 2026 opened on 5 June and will remain open until 24 September at 23:59 CEST.
A selection panel will choose up to 20 entries for the competition, with an additional six backups chosen in case of withdrawals.
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.
Do you think SoldOut will bring a fresh new look to Benidorm Fest 2026? 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: Corinne Cumming / EBU
Tim J