Oberwart gives ESC 2026: A race among six cities begins!

Oberwart gives ESC 2026: A race among six cities begins!

The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 will be a big event, but the search for the right host city has already taken some surprising twists. Both Ebreichsdorf and Oberwart recently withdrawn their applications. The chances for the smallest applicant city of Oberwart, which can come up with just 8,000 inhabitants, are bad because it failed due to the high requirements. After the victory of JJ with "Wasted Love", this city had expressed great interest in the edition, but had trouble finding a suitable event hall. The exhibition hall in Oberwart only holds around 4,000 guests, while a capacity of at least 10,000 space is required for the competition. There was also a lack of experience and time to get a sustainable concept. After the official cancellation to ORF, Oberwart at least left the idea of ​​his own song contest.

Currently there is still hope for cities who want to apply for the execution of the ESC 2026. After the application period runs until July 4, it is now the cities of Innsbruck, Wels, Linz, Vienna, Graz, St. Pölten and Premstätten that are serious opportunities. These cities meet the most fundamental requirements, such as the necessary capacity, international connection and corresponding accommodation options for the many fans who will flow to the event. Interestingly, Salzburg and Klagenfurt refrained from applying due to infrastructure problems.

application phase and requirements

The selection of the venue is expected for July 2025 after the ORF has sent invitations to application to all interested cities from May 26th. The pre-defined requirements include a hall for at least 10,000 spectators that are technically equipped for live broadcasts and is available for at least eight weeks. Aspects such as security, sustainability and organizational competence are also of great importance. The ESC 2026 also takes place under the motto "United by Music", which underlines the diversity and community spirit of the competition.

• Currently interested cities:
• Vienna: An open-air fan mile on the Danube Canal is planned
• Graz: Check application with the city hall Graz.
• Innsbruck: Plans to apply with the Olympic Hall.
• Wels and Linz: consider a joint application.
• st. Pölten: Would like to run with the Vaz St. Pölten.
• Premstätten: is also in the process of working out specific plans.

The first grand finale of the ESC 2026 is expected to take place on May 16 or 23, and ticket sales are expected to start in early 2026, after official confirmation of the venue. Tickets will be available via authorized platforms such as Oeticket.com, although the great potential of live broadcasts on television must not be underestimated-the whole nation will be excited.

The enthusiasm and anticipation are already noticeable, and everyone hopes that it will make a city that puts an unforgettable Eurovision Song Contest. The developments remain exciting and it remains to be seen which city will ultimately receive the coveted orientation. Until then, it is time for everyone interested: calculate, plan and maybe put the fan outfits ready!

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