Eurovision 2026 Semi-Final 1 Qualifiers: The 10 Acts Heading to Vienna’s Grand Final
Vienna’s 2026 Eurovision Song Contest is one step closer to its Grand Final after 10 acts secured their spots from Semi-Final 1. The qualifiers—announced live by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU)—set the stage for a high-stakes battle in the capital of Austria, where the contest’s 70th anniversary will be celebrated in style.
With the first semi-final now behind us, the stage is set for a Grand Final that promises to be a spectacle of music, drama, and voter passion. Here’s who made it through—and what their qualification means for the contest’s future.
The 10 Acts Advancing to the Grand Final
CROSSROADS – Czechia
Song: “Daniel Zizka”
A bold fusion of electronic and folk, CROSSROADS brought a fresh sound to the stage, blending Czech traditions with modern production.
LELEK – Croatia
Song: “Andromeda”
LELEK delivered a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcased Croatia’s knack for emotional storytelling, earning strong support from the jury.
ESSYLA – Belgium
Song: “Dancing on the Ice”
ESSYLA’s high-energy performance and infectious choreography made her a fan favorite, securing her place in the Grand Final.
JIVA – Azerbaijan
Song: “Just Go”
JIVA’s powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence captivated audiences, proving Azerbaijan’s ability to deliver a standout act.
COSMÓ – Austria
Song: “Tanzschein”
As the host nation’s representative, COSMÓ brought a vibrant, dance-driven performance that resonated with both juries and viewers.
AIDAN – Malta
Song: “Bella”
AIDAN’s soulful delivery and heartfelt lyrics gave Malta a strong contender, blending pop and acoustic elements seamlessly.
Winner JJ – Austria
Song: “Wasted Love”
Winner JJ’s raw, emotional performance struck a chord with audiences, showcasing Austria’s ability to produce deeply moving acts.
Basel 2025 – Austria
Song: (Performance details to be confirmed)
While specifics of their song are still under wraps, Basel 2025’s innovative approach to Eurovision’s format has already sparked conversation.
Israel (Country Name Not Yet Confirmed)
Song: (Performance details to be confirmed)
Israel’s entry, though not yet named, made a strong impression with a performance that balanced modernity and cultural heritage.
Finland (Country Name Not Yet Confirmed)
Song: (Performance details to be confirmed)
Finland’s act, known for its polished production and strong vocal delivery, secured its spot with a performance that appealed to both juries and fans.
Why These Qualifiers Matter
The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest is shaping up to be one of the most diverse yet. The qualifiers from Semi-Final 1 reflect a mix of:
- Cultural Fusion: Acts like CROSSROADS (Czechia) and LELEK (Croatia) are blending traditional sounds with contemporary production, a trend that’s gaining traction in the contest.
- High-Energy Performances: ESSYLA’s (Belgium) choreography and JIVA’s (Azerbaijan) dynamic stage presence highlight the growing importance of visual spectacle in Eurovision.
- Emotional Storytelling: Winner JJ’s (Austria) and AIDAN’s (Malta) performances prove that raw, heartfelt acts still resonate deeply with audiences.
- Innovation in Format: Austria’s dual entries—COSMÓ and Winner JJ—signal a potential shift in how countries approach the contest, with some exploring multiple acts or unconventional formats.
As the contest approaches its 70th anniversary, these qualifiers underscore a broader trend: Eurovision is evolving beyond its pop roots to embrace a wider range of musical and artistic expressions.
What’s Next for the Grand Final?
The Grand Final in Vienna will feature:
- A running order that balances fan favorites with dark horses, as revealed by the official draw.
- Special performances by Eurovision icons, celebrating the contest’s legacy.
- An expanded fan experience, including virtual reality voting and interactive elements.
With 26 acts now confirmed for the Grand Final, the competition is heating up. Fans can expect a mix of nostalgia and innovation as the contest celebrates its past while pushing creative boundaries.
FAQ: Eurovision 2026 Semi-Final 1 Qualifiers
How were the qualifiers determined?
Each act’s score is a combination of votes from national juries (50%) and the public (50%). The top 10 acts with the highest combined scores advance to the Grand Final.
When is the Grand Final?
The Grand Final will take place on Saturday, May 17, 2026, live from Vienna.
How can I watch?
Viewers can stream the contest via eurovision.com, with broadcasts available on national broadcasters like the BBC (UK), NRK (Norway), and ORF (Austria). The official Eurovision app will also provide live updates and interactive features.
Will there be a second semi-final?
Yes, Semi-Final 2 will take place on May 15, 2026, with another 10 acts advancing to the Grand Final.
Key Takeaways from Semi-Final 1
- The qualifiers showcase a diverse range of musical styles, from electronic to folk and pop.
- Austria’s dual entries signal a potential shift in how countries approach Eurovision’s format.
- Emotional storytelling and high-energy performances remain key drivers of success.
- The Grand Final promises to be a celebration of Eurovision’s 70-year legacy, blending tradition with innovation.
Don’t Miss Eurovision 2026
With the qualifiers announced and the Grand Final just days away, now is the time to:
- Follow the official Eurovision website for updates.
- Download the official Eurovision app for live voting and exclusive content.
- Mark your calendars for May 17, 2026—the night that could crown the next Eurovision champion.