Eurovision winners barred from hosting if country is in "armed conflict"

Winners of the Eurovision Song Contest are now barred from hosting the event if an "armed conflict" or a "sensitive" geopolitical situation is affecting their state or neighbouring countries.

Eurovision is traditionally hosted by the previous year's winner's broadcaster, with next year's show due to take place in Bulgaria after the singer Dara's victory for the country in May.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) said the rule changes were made following feedback from participating broadcasters, adding the new rules would provide greater clarity for artists and production staff.

Contest Director Martin Green stated: "The Eurovision Song Contest is constantly evolving, and our annual review of the rules is an important part of making sure the contest remains fair, transparent and consistent for all those who participate, including the millions who engage with the event globally.

"Guided, as always, by feedback from our members, we have clarified and strengthened several areas for 2027.

"These changes are about giving everyone involved greater clarity, protecting artists and ensuring the contest continues to provide a safe and welcoming environment, while preserving the spirit and integrity that make the Eurovision Song Contest so special."

Eurovision has faced protests in recent years over the participation of Israel, a competitor since 1973. Five longtime participants - Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia - boycotted this year's competition in Vienna after organisers declined to exclude Israel over its conduct in the war against Hamas in Gaza and violence against Palestine in the West Bank.

On the night of the Grand Final, RTÉ 2 aired the Father Ted episode, 'A Song for Europe.'

If necessary, the EBU will commission an independent security assessment of the winner's region and then consult a reference group to determine whether the winner can safely host the contest. If not, the EBU will choose someone else to host.

Separately, under-18s will no longer be allowed to take part in the contest.

In previous years, artists could be as young as 16 on the day of the first rehearsal and be allowed to compete.

The EBU says the new age restriction is part of efforts to strengthen safeguarding and protect younger artists "from the pressures associated with competing at the Eurovision Song Contest."