Public Television has announced nine finalists for the National Selection for “Eurovision 2026.”
This is reported by Kyiv24
Among the contenders competing for the right to represent Ukraine at the international song contest are Jerry Heil, LAUD, LELÉKA, MOLODI, Monokate, Mr. Vel, The Elliens, Valeriya Force, and “ShchukaRiba.” According to the organizers, the finalists were chosen after two days of auditions among the longlist participants.
The Tenth Finalist Will Be Determined by Viewers
For those who did not make it to the main list of finalists, an additional opportunity will arise: in January 2026, an online voting event will take place in the “Diia” app, after which one more participant will join the final. The final list of finalists is expected to be announced by January 15, 2026.
When Will the National Selection Final and the Contest Take Place
The National Selection final will be held in February. The winner will be determined based on the voting results of a professional jury and the audience, ensuring the objectivity of the outcome.
“It was a very challenging choice — forming the shortlist for National Selection 2026. I see and hear it as highly vocal, musical, competitive, and featuring interesting performers. It feels so unusual to be in the role of a music producer for the first time. It’s like writing a small dissertation, presenting each participant to the organizing committee,” commented Jamala, who this year became the music producer of the contest.
It is known that the 70th Eurovision contest will be hosted by the capital of Austria – Vienna. The semi-finals are scheduled for May 12 and 14, 2026, while the grand final will take place on May 16 at the country’s main indoor arena, Wiener Stadthalle.