Five countries are boycotting the competition this year over Israel’s involvement Get the inside track from Roisin O'Connor with our free weekly music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest is set to take place this month – but the popular music event remains mired in