Eurovision avoids its nightmare scenario as Bulgaria beats Israel to win

Ana Maria Rus

VIENNA — Bulgaria won the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest on Saturday, beating Israel to victory on a dramatic night in Vienna that was marred by several countries boycotting. Bulgaria won with 516 points, and will now host the competition in 2027. DARA, who represented Bulgaria with the upbeat “Bangaranga,” topped both the jury and public votes. Israel’s Noam Bettan, performing “Michelle,” came second with 343 points, in a nail-biting finish. The 70th edition of the iconic song contest was