Tensions over Israel’s participation in the competition flared up earlier in the week, when artist Noam Bettan performed the pop-ballad “Michelle” to cheers and chants during the semi-finals. Four audience members had to be removed for “disruptive behavior,” according to organizers.
It was the first victory for Bulgaria in the competition, after it started in 2005. Bulgaria was returning in 2026 after a four-year break from the competition due to financial constraints at the public broadcaster.
The Bulgarian dance hit delighted a high-energy crowd in Vienna, but was not initially tipped to win, against much-favoured entries from Finland or Australia.
The countries that sat this year (Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Iceland) said their decision was due to Israel’s war in Gaza – which was fueled by violent attacks against Israel by Hamas militants – leading to the humanitarian crisis it has caused.
Protesters too they passed through Vienna Saturday protesting Israel’s inclusion in the contest, chanting “boycott Israel, boycott ESC (Eurovision Song Contest)” and “no action for genocide.”
Later on Saturday night, separate protests against Israel’s involvement led to 14 arrests, Vienna police confirmed. Police said the men were arrested because they would not remove the masks that hide their identities.
