Cyprus has officially confirmed that it will take part in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Austria and is reportedly exploring the possibility of returning to a national final format to select its act.
From internal selection to public vote?
In recent years, Cyprus has relied heavily on internal selection, choosing its Eurovision entries behind closed doors. However, following mixed results in recent contests, CyBC is reportedly evaluating whether a public-facing national final could lead to stronger engagement and potentially better results.
Sources suggest that discussions within the broadcaster are still in the early stages, with no formal announcement yet regarding format or dates.
Cyprus’ Eurovision journey
The Mediterranean nation made its debut in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1981, where the Island participated with the song “Monika” and placed 6th. Since then, Cyprus has participated 40 times (33 of which where they qualified for the Grand Final).
For 2025, CyBC internally selected Theo Evan to represent them in Basel with the song “Shh”. Competing in the first semi-final, Cyprus failed to qualify for the final, finishing in 11th place with 44 points. This was the first time since 2022 that Cyprus had not been in a Eurovision final.
Would you like to see Cyprus bring back a national final, or should they stick to internal selections? 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: ieidiseis.gr
Photo Credit: Corinne Cumming/EBU
Silvia Stifini