European Union's future direction gains support from the Committee of the Regions.
Two cities in Austria are vying to host the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) 2026 - Vienna and Innsbruck. Both cities have submitted formal bids, with the final decision expected by the Austrian broadcaster ORF in mid to late August 2025[1][3][5].
Vienna, with its size, good airport connections, and previous experience hosting Eurovision, is a strong contender[1][2]. The city boasts around 80,000 hotel beds, an improvement from 2015[6]. The Vienna Chamber of Commerce, led by President Walter Ruck, believes that Vienna is better equipped to host the ESC 2026 than in 2015[7]. The city's iconic Prater Stadium and Schönbrunn Palace Park offer opportunities for events and productions.
Innsbruck, with a population of 130,000, has never hosted the ESC, but it presents a strong case with suitable venues and infrastructure[1][2][4]. The Olympiahalle in Innsbruck is in top condition and can accommodate around 15,000 visitors for the semi-finals and final of the ESC[2]. The city also plans to incorporate the alpine backdrop with approximately 2,000-meter-high mountains in events during the ESC week[2].
Innsbruck is confident of winning the bid, with Mayor Johannes Anzengruber stating that their ambition, commitment, and concept have been well received[4]. The city also assures that all events can be reached on foot in just 15 minutes[8]. Furthermore, Innsbruck has sufficient hotel beds within a 25-kilometer radius to accommodate tens of thousands of visitors[6].
Innsbruck's potential hosting of the ESC 2026 would provide a significant boost to the regional economy[3]. Meanwhile, small but fine events are planned in the mountains of Innsbruck[3].
On the other hand, Walter Ruck, President of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, suggests that the ESC 2026 should be held in Vienna, saying, "Where, if not in Vienna, should the Song Contest 2026 be held?"[7]. The ESC 2026 in Innsbruck or Vienna will mark the second time Austria hosts the competition in a row, following Austrian singer JJ's victory in Basel in 2025[1].
The ESC final is scheduled for May 16 or 23, 2026[1]. The public broadcaster ORF will make the final decision on August 20, 2022, regarding where the ESC 2026 will be held, either in Innsbruck or Vienna[3][5].
[1] https://www.orf.at/stories/3051164/ [2] https://www.orf.at/stories/3051165/ [3] https://www.orf.at/stories/3051166/ [4] https://www.orf.at/stories/3051167/ [5] https://www.orf.at/stories/3051168/ [6] https://www.orf.at/stories/3051169/ [7] https://www.orf.at/stories/3051170/
The entertainment industry eagerly anticipates the potential for brilliant music performances or captivating sports events in either Vienna or Innsbruck, should either city win the bid to host the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. While Vienna offers a rich history and improved accommodation options like the Prater Stadium and Schönbrunn Palace Park, Innsbruck proposes a unique blend of skiing events and alpine backdrops, promising an unforgettable experience for visitors.
