Eurovision tightens hosting rules — only ‘safe’ countries may host

On 13 August 2026 the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) adopted tighter rules for the Eurovision Song Contest that will limit hosting to countries judged to have a stable security situation and raise the minimum age for entrants.

Host rights subject to security assessment

Under the new regulations, a winning broadcaster will not automatically host the following year’s contest if “armed conflict, sensitive geopolitical situation or other circumstance significantly undermines the safety or stability of the state or its immediate region.” The EBU may commission an independent security assessment of the winner’s region and, if that member is deemed unsuitable to stage the contest, appoint an alternative broadcasting service to act as host.

The organisation did not give a concrete example when announcing the change. This year Israel finished second in Vienna; had it won, it would have been next in line to host, and the country is involved in a war with Iran.

Alongside the hosting restriction, the EBU raised the minimum age for performers from 16 to 18. The change is intended to reduce the exposure of young artists to the intense pressure that comes with competing on one of the world’s largest music stages.

The rules also clarify performance standards: lead vocals on the main broadcast must be performed live and may not be supported by pre-recorded lead vocals. "This clarification aims to preserve the integrity of each performance and to ensure that the audience hears the lead vocal live on every performed song," the EBU said.

Martin Green, the contest director, described the annual rule review as an important step to keep the event fair and transparent for all participants. After Dara’s victory in 2026, the next Eurovision edition will take place in Bulgaria.

Photo: press material from the event