European Union's Future Favoured by The Committee of Regions Decision
In the picturesque city of Innsbruck, nestled among the Austrian Alps, and the bustling metropolis of Vienna, a friendly competition is underway. Both cities have thrown their hats in the ring to host the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, following Austria's victory in the 2025 competition in Basel.
With a population of 130,000, Innsbruck is the fifth-largest city in Austria. Its alpine charm is undeniable, and the city's mayor, Johannes Anzengruber, assures that it is well-equipped to host the event, boasting sufficient hotel beds and the Olympiahalle, a venue that can accommodate around 15,000 visitors for the semi-finals and final.
Innsbruck prides itself on its ability to host large-scale events, having been an Olympic city and a host of world and European championships. The city's strategic location means that all events can be reached on foot in just 15 minutes. Innsbruck also plans to incorporate its stunning alpine backdrop, with approximately 2,000-meter-high mountains, into ESC-related events.
Vienna, on the other hand, is considered the "safe bet" due to its previous successful hosting of the contest in 1967 and 2015. The city's main proposed venue is the Wiener Stadthalle, a large arena with about 16,000 seats and excellent infrastructure, including a major international airport and extensive public transportation.
Walter Ruck, President of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, expresses confidence that the ESC will take place in Vienna. The chamber questions why the ESC 2026 should not take place in Vienna, given its proven track record and improved infrastructure since its last hosting in 2015. The city offers opportunities for events and productions during the ESC at venues such as the Prater Stadium and the Schönbrunn Palace Park.
Access for guests in Innsbruck is feasible by plane, train, or car, and the city has planned small but fine events in the mountains around Innsbruck during the ESC week. The regional economy would also welcome the ESC, as it attracted around 500,000 people to Basel in 2025.
Mayor Anzengruber sees the ESC as a chance to bring the big stage to the heart of the Alps. The final decision on the host city for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Austria will be made by the Austrian broadcaster ORF on August 20, 2025. Both mayors will be informed earlier that morning, followed by a public press release.
As of mid-August 2025, it is not yet confirmed whether Eurovision 2026 will be held in Innsbruck or Vienna; the final decision is imminent and expected on August 20, 2025. The anticipation is palpable in both cities, and the tourism chief expects that if the ESC comes to Innsbruck, the whole city will embrace the event.
Innsbruck, with its Alpine charm and strategic location, is planning to incorporate entertainment such as music performances at various mountain venues during the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, creating a unique blend of music and stunning alpine backdrops.
Vienna, a city that has successfully hosted the Eurovision Song Contest twice before in 1967 and 2015, offers a proven track record and venues like the Wiener Stadthalle, which can accommodate excellent music productions for the contest.
