Azerbaijan’s search for its representative at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 has entered its final stage, with broadcaster İTV confirming that three artists remain in contention to represent the country in Vienna.
186 songs
The broadcaster outlined the scale of this year’s selection for the 70th Eurovision Song Contest, revealing that the open submission window attracted 100 applications, resulting in 186 submitted songs. Of these entries, 107 were created by Azerbaijani songwriters, while 79 tracks came from international composers.
Following an extensive review of all submissions, a dedicated panel shortlisted 18 performers to advance to the next stage. These artists then took part in live auditions and interviews, where their vocals, artistic vision and overall potential were evaluated by both a selection committee and a focus group.
Azerbaijan’s Eurovision journey
Azerbaijan is a powerhouse in Eurovision, first debuting in 2008 with the song “Day After Day” by Elnur & Samir, finishing 8th. The country has since achieved five top-5 performances, including one win in 2011. Azerbaijan has an impressive qualification record, only failing to make the final in 2018, 2023, and 2024.
Azerbaijan internally selected Mamagama to represent them in 2025 with the song “Run With U”; they scored seven points in the first semifinal, placing fifteenth and missing out on the Grand Final for a third year in a row.
Who will represent Azerbaijan 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: ictimaieurovision
Photo Credit: Sarah Louise Bennett / EBU
Tim J