The Grand Final of the 70th Eurovision Song Contest kicks off this evening in Vienna, with the Austrian capital hosting what may be the most politically charged edition in the event's history. What began as a post-war effort to unite Europe has evolved into a platform where geopolitics often overshadows the music.
This year, five countries have chosen to boycott the competition over Israel's participation and its ongoing military campaign in Gaza. The boycotts have fueled months of debate and protest, with demonstrators gathering near the venue in the days leading up to the final. Austrian authorities have deployed a heavy security presence across the city, including around the stadium and key transport hubs.
Despite the controversy, the show goes on. Among the 25 competing nations, Israel remains one of the betting favorites, alongside Finland's entry featuring violinist Linda Lampenius and singer Pete Parkkonen. Their fiery performance in the second semi-final on Thursday secured their place in the final, as reported in our coverage of Finland and Israel advancing amid boycotts and protests.
Another act to watch is Australia's Delta Goodrem, whose strong showing in the semi-finals has sparked speculation that the pop star could finally bring the trophy down under. Australia, a non-European participant, has been a regular contender since 2015 and has often been seen as an underdog.
Security and Spectacle in Vienna
The atmosphere in Vienna is a mix of celebration and tension. Pre-show demonstrations have erupted in several districts, with activists calling for a ceasefire and criticizing the European Broadcasting Union's decision to allow Israel to compete. The city has also seen cultural events tied to Eurovision, including the unveiling of Austria's largest mural on an office tower, which we covered in Vienna Unveils Austria's Largest Mural on Office Tower for Eurovision.
For fans looking to watch the final, watch parties are planned from Vienna to Bergen, as detailed in our guide to Eurovision 2026 Grand Final: Best Watch Parties from Vienna to Bergen. The event is expected to draw millions of viewers across Europe and beyond.
The political undercurrents are impossible to ignore. This year's contest has been described as the most divisive in decades, with the boycotts reflecting deeper fractures within the European community over the Israel-Gaza conflict. The European Pulse has been tracking these developments, including in our analysis of Eurovision 2026: Geopolitics Takes Center Stage in Vienna.
As the final approaches, the focus returns to the music. The lineup includes entries from 25 countries, each vying for the coveted trophy. The voting system, which combines jury and public votes, often produces surprises. Whether a political statement or a catchy tune will sway the outcome remains to be seen.
For now, Vienna is the epicenter of Europe's most flamboyant cultural event, a spectacle that continues to evolve amid the continent's shifting political landscape. Stay with European Pulse for live updates and analysis throughout the evening.
