Finland has not yet decided whether it will compete in Eurovision 2026 in Vienna, though Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu (UMK) is set to proceed as planned.
Yle’s cautious approach
According to Helsingin Sanomat, Yle has not reached a final decision regarding Finland’s participation next May. Johanna Törn-Mangs, Head of Culture and Factual at Yle, explained:
“We have not had a broad discussion leading towards a decision so far.”
She noted that Yle has already shared its views with the EBU concerning Israel’s participation and the wider discussions that have followed.
UMK to proceed as planned
Törn-Mangs confirmed that UMK, Finland’s long-running national selection, will take place regardless of the situation:
“Our task is to support Finnish culture and music-making. Of course, we do not accept the suffering caused by war, but our role is not to take a political stance.”
Eurovision Executive Producer Martin Green recently responded to broadcaster concerns, confirming that discussions are ongoing and that the deadline to confirm participation has been extended to mid-December.
Finland’s Eurovision journey
Finland debuted in the 1961 Eurovision Song Contest, finishing 10th with Laila Kunnunen’s “Valoa ikkunassa.” Since then they have competed 56 times, and appeared in the final 48 times. Finland has finished in the top 10 an impressive 14 times. They have won the contest once in 2006, with Lordi’s performance of “Hard Rock Hallelujah” getting 292 points.
Finland’s most recent entry was “ICH KOMME” by Erika Vikman. Competing in the second semi-final, Erika qualified for the final, and would eventually finish in 11th place with 196 points. Of these, 108 came from the televote, while the jury awarded her 88 points.
Do you think Finland should continue to take part in Eurovision 2026? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow That Eurovision Site on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, Threads, Tumblr, and Bluesky for all the latest updates on Sanremo and Eurovision 2026!
News source: Helsingin Sanomat
Photo credit: Corinne Cumming / EBU
Euan T 
Rory Gannon