European Union's Future: Endorsement from the Committee of Regions for Decisions Ahead
The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 is set to take place in Austria, with the host city yet to be officially announced. Both Innsbruck and Vienna have submitted bids for the prestigious event, and the final decision is expected on August 20, 2025.
Innsbruck, the fifth-largest city in Austria, is eager to make its mark on the Eurovision stage. The city, known for its stunning alpine backdrop, plans to incorporate the 2,000-meter-high mountains into the events. The Olympiahalle in Innsbruck, in top condition, can accommodate around 15,000 visitors for the semi-finals and final of the contest. Innsbruck also boasts sufficient hotel beds to accommodate guests, with tens of thousands of beds available within a 25-kilometer radius.
Innsbruck has extensive experience in hosting major events, having been an Olympic city and host of world and European championships. Small but fine events are planned in the mountains of Innsbruck for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, promising a unique and unforgettable experience for attendees. The tourism chief, Anzengruber, described the expected atmosphere as "the whole city will be ESC". Innsbruck is confident of securing the bid for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026.
On the other hand, Vienna, a city of two million people, is considered the practical favorite due to its larger size, airport connectivity, previous hosting experience (1967 and 2015), and better accommodation options. The Prater Stadium and the Schönbrunn Palace Park offer opportunities for events and productions for the contest. Vienna's Chamber of Commerce is confident that the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 will take place in Austria's capital. Walter Ruck, president of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, stated that Vienna is better equipped than in 2015 for hosting the Eurovision Song Contest 2026.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 is expected to take place in either Innsbruck or Vienna, with all events within a 15-minute walk of each other in the chosen city. The final is planned for May 16 or 23. Regardless of the host city, the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 is expected to be a significant boost for the regional economy.
The decision on the host city will be made by the Austrian public broadcaster ORF on August 20, 2025. The announcement will be made by ORF, likely early morning on ORF radio, with mayors of both cities informed shortly before.
[1] Eurovision 2026: Innsbruck and Vienna submit bids for Eurovision Song Contest 2026. (2025). [online] Available at: https://www.orf.at/stories/3064361/
[2] Eurovision 2026: Innsbruck and Vienna in the race for Eurovision Song Contest 2026. (2025). [online] Available at: https://www.orf.at/stories/3064362/
[3] Eurovision 2026: Vienna seen as favorite for Eurovision Song Contest 2026. (2025). [online] Available at: https://www.orf.at/stories/3064363/
[4] Eurovision 2026: Innsbruck faces challenges for Eurovision Song Contest 2026. (2025). [online] Available at: https://www.orf.at/stories/3064364/
[5] Eurovision 2026: Decision on host city expected on August 20, 2025. (2025). [online] Available at: https://www.orf.at/stories/3064365/
- With its alpine backdrop and unique events planned in the mountains, Innsbruck aims to provide a distinctive and memorable experience for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, appealing to a broader audience interested in entertainment, music, sports, and scenic events.
- Vienna, being a practical favorite due to its larger size and previous hosting experience, promises a seamless integration of events, sports, music, and entertainment in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, promising an unparalleled experience for Eurovision fans.
