RTVE has officially unveiled the lineup for Benidorm Fest 2026, the fifth edition of Spain’s national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest, after today’s press event in Madrid.
The official lineup
This year’s edition features 18 artists, selected from more than 870 submissions received during the open call that closed on September 24.
In addition, six reserve songs have been selected, in case any of the selected songs above need to be withdrawn.
What we know so far
Spain’s Head of Delegation César Vallejo previously confirmed that all Benidorm Fest 2026 songs will be released on December 18, ahead of the live shows early next year. The titles of the songs haven’t been revealed during the Madrid press event, unlike previous years.
Benidorm Fest 2026 will once again feature two semi-finals, one on February 10, and another one on February 12, with the grand final featuring 8 of the 18 artists happening on February 14. This edition also includes a revamped stage inspired by the Balcón del Mediterráneo and several format updates.
A festival beyond Eurovision
RTVE and the Generalitat Valenciana have reaffirmed that Benidorm Fest will go ahead regardless of Spain’s Eurovision participation, after the broadcaster’s ongoing discussions about Israel’s inclusion in 2026.
As President Carlos Mazón noted:
“A flagship product that showcases the best of our music industry, Valencian creativity, and Spanish talent.”
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.
Who is your favourite? 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: RTVE. Collage by That Eurovision Site
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