RTVE Withdraws From Eurovision 2026 Amid Controversy

Spanish broadcaster RTVE voted to exit the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest over Israel's participation. Spain joins four countries, becoming the first from the "Big Five." The decision follows controversies linked to the Gaza conflict, impacting the contest's political neutrality.

Spain's national broadcaster RTVE announced its withdrawal from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, contingent on Israel's participation. The decision, reached with 10 out of 15 board members in favor, follows similar pledges by the Netherlands, Slovenia, Iceland, and Ireland.

This move makes Spain the first among the 'Big Five' countries, which include Britain, Germany, Italy, and France, to express such intent. These nations typically secure automatic entry into the contest's final round.

Eurovision, emphasizing its political neutrality, has encountered controversy this year amid tensions related to the Gaza conflict. Calls have intensified for the European Broadcasting Union to exclude Israel, spurred by the runner-up finish of Israeli contestant Yuval Raphael and advocacy by Austrian winner JJ for a ban in 2026.

(With inputs from agencies.)