Belgium could be turning to one of its most iconic performers, as reports suggest Loïc Nottet has been internally selected for Eurovision 2026 – a full decade after his first appearance.
Belgium reportedly selects Loïc Nottet
According to reports by journalist Clément Garin via CGTV, Loïc Nottet has been chosen to represent Belgium at the 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest, set to take place in Austria. While the Belgian broadcaster RTBF has not confirmed the news, the decision appears to have been made following an internal selection involving around 40 artists.
Among the other names reportedly in the running were Mentissa, Henri PFR, and Essyla – all known from The Voice Belgique. Despite strong consideration, it’s said that Nottet ultimately emerged as the preferred choice.
Loïc at Eurovision
Nottet first represented Belgium in 2015, also in Austria, where his entry “Rhythm Inside” earned 4th place in the Grand Final. His performance and choreography helped cement his reputation as a Eurovision fan favourite.
At the time, he was just 19 years old and had already made a name for himself through The Voice Belgique and Danse avec les stars in France. Now 29, his reported return could mark a symbolic full-circle moment – celebrating both the 70th Eurovision and ten years since his breakout appearance.
No confirmation yet from RTBF
Although the rumour is gaining traction, there has been no official confirmation from RTBF or Loïc Nottet himself. As always, it’s best to treat the news with caution until further statements are made.
Should the news be confirmed, Nottet would follow in the footsteps of other returning Eurovision artists – and aim to turn around Belgium’s recent Eurovision fortunes, after two consecutive non-qualifications.
Journalist Clément Garin said:
“It’s a surprise, for sure! But a symbolic and exciting one.”
Belgium’s Eurovision Journey
Belgium was one of the debutant countries at the beginning of the Eurovision Song Contest back in 1956. For the first edition, countries could submit two songs, and for Belgium that year, ‘Messieurs les noyès de la Seine’ by Fud Leclerc and ‘Le plus beau jour de ma vie’ by Mony Marc represented the nation. To this day we do not know the final results of Eurovision 1956. Belgium have taken part in 64 Eurovision Song Contests; however, they have only ever won once: in 1986 with Sandra Kim and the song ‘J’amie la vie’, scoring 176 points.
Belgium chose Red Sebastian to represent the nation with “Strobe Lights” in 2025. Competing in the first semi-final, Belgium scored 23 points, placing fourteenth and ultimately missing out on the Grand Final for the second year in a row.
Would you be excited to see Loïc return to Eurovision in 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: CGTV
Photo credit: EBU
Rory Gannon