Norway’s NRK have revealed that the final of MGP 2026, the country’s national final for Eurovision 2026 in Vienna, will be held in Lillehammer on the 28th of February.
MGP final in February
For the first time ever Lillehammer will host the Nordic nation’s national final, with it set to be held in Håkons Hall. An arena with a history of major contests as it was purpose built for the 1994 Winter Olympics.
Further to the location announcement it was also revealed that a wildcard round will be implemented. 9 songs will be directly chosen by NRK’s team, with the tenth being decided from a public wildcard round. Eight songs will compete for a single slot, decided in duels.
While Norway has officially confirmed participation, this is not set in stone. Pressure is building in the country to withdraw from the contest in the event Israel is allowed to participate in Vienna.
What’s still to come
- 26th of January – 10th finalist from the wildcard round announced
- 28th of February – MGP 2026 Final
What is Melodi Grand Prix?
Melodi Grand Prix is the Norwegian method of selection for Eurovision. This national final selection method is over 60 years old. The only year where Melodi Grand Prix has not taken place was 2002, when Norway were relegated from the Eurovision Song Contest. Melodi Grand Prix had undertaken a few different formats. The changes in format have mainly taken place in the last few years, since 2020.
Norway’s Eurovision Journey
The Scandinavian nation made its debut in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1960, with Nora Brockstedt and the song “Voi Voi”, which placed 4th. Since their debut, they have participated 62 times, and made the Grand Final 59 of these. In addition, Norway has won the competition three times – in 1985, 1995, and 2009.
Norway’s latest Eurovision participation saw them being represented by Kyle Alessandro with the song “Lighter”. After qualifying for the final, Norway placed 18th in the Grand Final, receiving 89 points, 22 of which from the jury and 67 from televoters.
Do you plan to go to next year’s MGP? 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!
Source: NRK
Photo credit: Alma Bengtsson / EBU
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