MRT – the national broadcaster in North Macedonia – has announced a potential work plan to bring the nation back to Eurovision. However, official confirmation for 2026 has yet to be fully decided.
MRT highlights major issues
In a document outlining MRT’s work plan for the year, Eurovision was a key addition to the schedule. The broadcaster confirmed no decision has yet been made surrounding participation. However, MRT said it would consider several factors to assess the viability of taking part.
The statement read:
Last but not least, MRT’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 is a matter for which MRT has not yet made a final decision.
The reasons for this are multifaceted: the need for a careful assessment of production and financial possibilities, consideration of the concept for selecting the representative and the performance strategy, as well as the analysis of previous experiences.
The editorial board of MRT will consider all these factors and will make the best decision in accordance with the interests of the public service, the cultural promotion of the country and the expectations of the audience.
The comments come after MRT received several calls to return to Eurovision from citizens, and musicians alike. North Macedonia has not taken part since 2022, having originally cited financial costs due to the energy crisis in Europe. Since then, money has been earmarked for other projects, though MRT did attempt to return in 2025.
North Macedonia’s Eurovision journey
The ex-Yugoslav nation made its formal debut in the Contest in 1998 with Vlado Janevski’s “Ne zori, zoro”. Performing last, North Macedonia finished 19th out of 25.
Following Kaliopi’s participation in 2012 with “Crno i Belo”, North Macedonia began a 6-year non-qualification streak. Tamara Todevska’s participation in 2019 broke the streak with her song, “Proud” – which finished in 7th place, winning the jury vote.
In 2022, Andrea represented North Macedonia, singing her song “Circles”. Andrea performed in the second semi-final, finishing in 11th place out of 16. In total, Andrea received 76 points.
What do you think of the work plan MRT has? Can we see North Macedonia make a return next year? 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: MRT
Photo Credit: Nathan Reinds / EBU
Tim J 
Euan T 
Samantha