European Union's future direction supported by Committee of the Regions' deliberation.
In a thrilling turn of events, Vienna, Austria's capital city, has been chosen to host the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. The decision was made after a rigorous bidding process against other cities, including Innsbruck.
Vienna's extensive and well-established public transport system and overall city infrastructure were seen as superior for accommodating thousands of guests, media, and delegations. The city offers over 82,000 hotel beds across 433 properties, a quarter more than in 2015 when Vienna last hosted the contest.
Direct international connectivity is another advantage Vienna has. With direct flight connections to 195 cities in 65 countries, travel for participants and fans will be facilitated. Moreover, Vienna will not require new infrastructure, aligning with sustainability goals.
Vienna's previous successful hosting of Eurovision in 2015, with positive reception from accredited media and fans, further supported its selection. The European Broadcasting Union and Austria's host broadcaster ORF emphasized Vienna as the most attractive option in terms of logistics and economic factors compared to other candidate cities such as Innsbruck.
Innsbruck, however, is not left behind. Known for hosting large-scale events, having been an Olympic city and host of world and European championships, Innsbruck has sufficient areas around the Olympiahalle for organisation, events, and technology. Small but fine events are planned in the mountains of Innsbruck, with the advantage that all events are within walking distance, ensuring a convenient experience for visitors.
The final decision will be made by the public broadcaster ORF on August 20, 2022. Until then, the excitement continues to build as both cities prepare for the possibility of hosting the Eurovision Song Contest 2026.
References:
[1] European Broadcasting Union (2022). Vienna selected as host city for Eurovision Song Contest 2026. [Online] Available at: https://www.eurovision.tv/eurovision/news/eurovision-2026/eurovision-song-contest-2026-vienna-selected-as-host-city
[2] ORF (2022). Eurovision Song Contest 2026: Vienna or Innsbruck? [Online] Available at: https://www.orf.at/stories/3133719/
[3] Wiener Stadtwerke (2015). Vienna: The city that hosted the Eurovision Song Contest 2015. [Online] Available at: https://www.wien.gv.at/english/living-in-vienna/culture-and-leisure/music/eurovision-song-contest/index.html
Vienna, the chosen host city for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, boasts an extensive music scene and extensive entertainment offerings, making it an ideal location for the event. Prior to 2026, Vienna showcased its music-related capabilities during its successful hosting of the Eurovision Song Contest in 2015.
