Following the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest held in Austria, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has today announced significant changes to the rules for next year’s competition. In a press release, the Reference Group outline changes to hosting eligibility as well as age and vocal restrictions.
EBU Reference Group makes change to rules
Following the EBU’s annual review post-Eurovision Song Contest, the Reference Group has made a series of amendments to the Rules for next year’s competition. The EBU have today announced updates following feedback from participating broadcasters.
The EBU Reference Group says the amendments to the rules “are designed to provide greater clarity for all those taking part, including artists and those working on the production”. They also say that these changes “strengthen protections for young artists”. The Reference Group go on to say these changes ensure the Contest can “always be hosted in a safe and secure setting.”
Major changes to hosting eligibility
The most prominent change to the Rules of the Contest are major changes to the hosting eligibility. Following a country’s win of the Song Contest, changes have been made to the right to host. The Contest Rules now state that:
“The winning broadcaster will automatically be ineligible to host the Contest if an armed conflict, a sensitive geopolitical situation, or any other situation materially affects the security, safety or stability of their state or immediate region. Where deemed necessary, the EBU may commission an independent security assessment of the winner’s region. Following that assessment, the EBU will consult the Reference Group to determine whether the winning Member is able to safely host the Contest.
“If the winning Member is deemed unable to host, the EBU will identify an alternative Host Broadcaster. The appointed Host Broadcaster will assume all rights, obligations and liabilities associated with hosting the Contest, including responsibility for the organisation, production and staging of the event. The Host Broadcaster will organise the Contest in its own right and will not be required to stage the event on behalf of another Member.”
Changes to age restrictions and audio rules
From the 2027 Contest in Bulgaria, all participating performers “must be 18 years old“. This has risen from the previous age limit of 16. Performers must be 18 on the “day of their first rehearsal.” The EBU claim this rule change strengthens the safeguarding changes made in recent years to protect performers. It also protects younger performers from the pressures associated with competing in the Song Contest.
The rules regarding audio tracks for participating songs have also been clarified by the Reference Group. The EBU says:
“The core principle remains unchanged. The Lead Singer(s) must perform the main melody live. Backing tracks and pre-recorded elements may be used in accordance with the Rules, but the lead vocal must be the only element performing the main melody and they cannot replace or unduly assist the live vocal performance.” The Reference Group say this clarification is “intended to protect the integrity of each performance and to ensure the audience always hears the lead vocals on each song performed live.”
Martin Green CBE, Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, said of the changes:
The Eurovision Song Contest is constantly evolving, and our annual review of the Rules is an important part of making sure the Contest remains fair, transparent and consistent for all those who participate, including the millions who engage with the event globally. Guided, as always, by feedback from our Members, we have clarified and strengthened several areas for 2027. These changes are about giving everyone involved greater clarity, protecting artists and ensuring the Contest continues to provide a safe and welcoming environment, while preserving the spirit and integrity that make the Eurovision Song Contest so special.
The Journey to Eurovision 2027 so far
The journey to the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest kicked off immediately following DARA’s win in Vienna. Bulgaria’s BNT accepted the rights to host the 71st edition of the contest. Currently, very little is known about the plans for next year’s Contest. Four cities expressed their interest in hosting Eurovision 2027, with Burgas and Sofia being shortlisted.
As for the organisation of the competition, the Bulgarian government stepped in to create an organising committee, which was revealed at the end of May 2026. Further details about next year’s competition are to be revealed in due course.
What do you think about the changes made to the Competition Rules by the EBU Reference Group? Let us know your thoughts on social media and follow ‘That Eurovision Site’ on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, Bluesky, and ZOOP for more information on Eurovision 2027!
News source : EBU Reference Group / Eurovision Rules of the Contest
Image credits : Sarah Louise Bennett/EBU
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