European Union's Committee of Regions voices support for determining the Union's upcoming direction.
In the heart of the Alps, Austria is gearing up for the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) 2026, with two cities vying for the coveted role of host. As the final decision draws near, Innsbruck and Vienna are presenting their strongest cases.
Innsbruck, known for its ample space for organisation, events, and technology, is pitching itself as a fresh and energetic contender. With the slogan "Together on Top", the city hopes to bring a new dimension to the contest, leveraging its alpine backdrop and hosting expertise gained from world and European championships.
The Olympiahalle in Innsbruck, with a capacity of at least 10,000 seats, is well-suited for the ESC. During the semi-finals and final, it can accommodate around 15,000 spectators. Small events are also planned in the mountains of Innsbruck during the ESC week, offering a unique twist to the competition.
On the other hand, Vienna, a two-million metropolis and a previous ESC host in 2015, is considered the "safe bet" due to its strong hosting legacy and proven infrastructure. The city boasts the Wiener Stadthalle, a venue with around 16,000 seats, and a robust network of large international airport connections, extensive hotel capacity, and excellent public transport.
The decision on the host city will be made by the Austrian broadcaster ORF on August 20, 2025. As of now, Vienna's established hosting experience and infrastructure make it a strong favourite. However, Innsbruck, with its enthusiasm and extensive event experience, remains a formidable competitor.
Mayor Johannes Anzengruber of Innsbruck is confident that the city has enough hotel beds to accommodate tens of thousands of visitors within a 25-kilometer radius. Innsbruck entered the bidding process after Austrian countertenor JJ's victory in Basel, and hosting the ESC would be a significant boost for the regional economy.
Meanwhile, the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, led by Walter Ruck, believes the Song Contest 2026 should be held in Austria's capital. The Prater Stadium and the Schönbrunn Palace Park offer opportunities for events and productions during the ESC 2026, further bolstering Vienna's case.
The ESC final is scheduled for May 16 or 23, 2026. Regardless of the chosen city, Austrians can look forward to a memorable Eurovision Song Contest, showcasing the best of their country and its spirit of unity.
[1] ORF (2022). Innsbruck and Vienna bid for Eurovision 2026. [online] Available at: https://www.orf.at/stories/3048916/
[2] EBU (2022). Eurovision 2026 bids: Innsbruck and Vienna. [online] Available at: https://www.eurovision.tv/news/eurovision-2026-bids-innsbruck-and-vienna
[3] The Local (2022). Vienna seen as front-runner to host Eurovision 2026. [online] Available at: https://www.thelocal.at/20220413/vienna-seen-as-front-runner-to-host-eurovision-2026
[4] The Local (2022). Innsbruck and Vienna competing to host Eurovision 2026. [online] Available at: https://www.thelocal.at/20220422/innsbruck-and-vienna-competing-to-host-eurovision-2026
Entertainment and sports will likely be at the forefront of Austria's Eurovision Song Contest 2026 as both Innsbruck and Vienna vie for the hosting role. Innsbruck, driven by its alpine backdrop, event expertise, and hotel capacity, hopes to bring a unique spin to the contest with small events in the mountains, while Vienna, with its established infrastructure and strong hosting legacy, presents a safe and proven choice.
