Ireland’s broadcaster RTÉ, one of the most outspoken against Israeli participation in Eurovision 2026, has not changed their tune following the flurry of reforms recently released by the EBU in response to broadcaster concerns.
Official statement from RTÉ
In RTÉ’s official article covering the rule changes, the broadcaster reiterated that they have “already set out its position on this. In a statement issued in September, the broadcaster said Ireland would not take part in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if Israel’s participation goes ahead.”
In response to the rule changes specifically, an RTÉ spokesperson offered: “As previously confirmed by the EBU, the issue of participation in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest has been included on the agenda of the […] General Assembly, which will take place in December.”
Ireland is one of a few countries that have vowed to leave Eurovision 2026 should Israel be allowed to compete; they are joined by Spain, Slovenia, and the Netherlands. Additional countries expressed concern over the voting integrity of the 2025 contest, in which Israel achieved high results in the televote following a publicity campaign promoting their entry.
Ireland’s Eurovision journey
In 1965, Ireland made their debut in the Eurovision Song Contest with Butch Moore and the song “Walking the Streets in the Rain”, which placed 6th. Since their debut, Ireland has participated 57 times (making the Grand Final 46 times), and has won the competition seven times, which is currently tied for the record of most wins.
Ireland’s latest Eurovision participation saw them represented by Norwegian singer EMMY with her song “Laika Party”. At the close of voting, Ireland failed to qualify from the second semi-final, earning 28 points and ultimately placing thirteenth.
Will the rule changes lead to real change at Eurovision? Do you think Ireland will participate or leave Eurovision this 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: RTÉ
Photo Credit: Corinne Cumming/EBU
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