Ireland has officially announced that it will take part in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2026, with TG4 confirming that the country will once again select its young representative through Junior Eurovision Éire.
Applications now open
The submission period for Junior Eurovision Éire 2026 is currently underway and will remain open until 28 February. TG4 has outlined the following eligibility requirements for applicants:
- Performers must be between 9 and 14 years old at the time of the contest in autumn 2026.
- Participation is open to solo artists, duos, or groups of up to six members.
- Applicants must be Irish citizens or legal residents.
- All shortlisted contestants will take part in the studio round in Dublin.
- A 40-second video featuring a cover performance must be submitted as part of the application.
- Songs from musicals are not permitted in audition videos.
The Irish-language broadcaster will organise the national selection for the 11th time, continuing its long-running involvement in the competition. Aspiring young performers from across Ireland are invited to audition, with ten acts eventually progressing to the televised studio phase.
Ireland’s Junior Eurovision journey
Ireland first participated in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest in 2015. Debuting alongside Australia, Ireland was represented by Aimee Banks singing ” Réalta na Mara”. At the close of voting, Ireland finished in 12th place – receiving 36 points. Ireland has since participated a further eight times. Their best placement came in 2022, when Sophie Lennon finished in fourth place with her song “Solas”.
In 2025, Lottie O’Driscoll Murray sang “Rúin ” for Ireland. She placed last, receiving 3 points from the jury and 41 from the online vote.
Will Ireland bring a better result at the Junior Eurovision 2026? As always, let us know what you think by commenting down below. Also, be sure to follow ‘That Eurovision Site’ on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, Threads and Bluesky for all things Junior Eurovision!
News Source: Adare Productions
Photo credit: TG4
Samantha