Eurovision changes rules so winning country can be blocked from hosting

| Live News reporter Published August 12, 2026 3:56pm Updated August 12, 2026 5:05pm Dara, of Bulgaria, won the grand final of Eurovision in Vienna, Austria, earlier this year (Picture: AP) The Eurovision Song Contest has introduced a new set of rules that could prevent the winning country from hosting the following year’s contest. Traditionally, Eurovision is hosted by the broadcaster from the previous year’s winning country, provided that the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) requests it. Now, however, updated rules have given the EBU the power to hand out hosting duties to another broadcaster if the winning broadcaster does not accept or follow Eurovision’s rules. Circumstances in which hosting duties may be passed over include if the winning country cannot guarantee the safety and security of the contest, attempts to unfairly influence the result or undermines Eurovision’s non-political character. The new rules also addresses situations involving war and geopolitical tensions. If an armed conflict, sensitive geopolitical situation or another event has a material impact on the security, safety or stability of the immediate region of the winning broadcaster, it will not normally be eligible to host the following Eurovision. The European Broadcasting Union can now prevent the winning country from hosting Eurovision (Picture: Getty) Traditionally, Eurovision is hosted by the broadcaster from the previous year’s winning country (Picture: EPA) The EBU can, however, make an exception if it is satisfied that the contest can still be delivered safely and securely. Being ruled ineligible to host, however, does not affect a country’s participation in Eurovision and does not change the result of the contest. Another broadcaster would then take on the full rights and responsibilities of hosting the event. This comes after Canada was confirmed to participate in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest after its public broadcaster became a full member of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). The country shared the exciting news on Canada Day, with Marie-Philippe Bouchard, President and CEO of CBC/Radio-Canada saying they are ‘so excited’ to showcase Canadian talent ‘on one of the most storied music stages in the world’. Prior to that, Hungary was tipped for a Eurovision return after a seven-year absence. Deals of the Day Parents can save up to 30% on Kickers school shoes ahead of the new term The back-to-school hack that's helping parents avoid queues and sold-out sizes Could your hair be wavy rather than straight? This brand thinks so Could your star sign improve your skincare routine? This new beauty launch thinks so Best skincare for menopausal skin? This dermatologist-created treatment is tailored to you This came after claims that the government found the contest ‘too gay’. Arrow MORE: Wayne Rooney ‘should commentate Eurovision’ after ripping apart World Cup halftime show TV Newsletter Sign up and tell us which TV shows you love to watch to get personalised updates every morning.