ORF, the Austrian national broadcaster, have revealed when ‘Vienna Calling – Wer singt für Österreich?’ will be held – their national selection for the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, in Vienna.

FOLLOWING the news that Austria will hold a national final in 2026, it has been revealed that ‘Vienna Calling – Wer singt für Österreich?’ will be held on Saturday 20th February, on ORF 1. Twelve artists will compete in Vienna Calling – Wer singt für Österreich?’. Song submissions are now open HERE and will remain open until Wednesday 15th October. Rules include:

• Songs must not have been commercially released or performed before September 1, 2025.
• All artists must be at least 16 years old.
• Each artsit may only compete for one country.
• Songs must be performed live with instruments on playback.
• A maximum of six people may be on stage during the performance.
• Songs must not be longer than three minutes.
• Texts, speeches and gestures of a political nature are prohibited.
• Songs must not be created with the help of AI.

Stefanie Groiss-Horowitz, Programme Director for ORF, had the following to say:

“The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna is the largest event that will be held in Austria next year. Our goal is to involve and inspire the whole country. Now that the question of where the Eurovision Song Contest will take place has been answered, it is about who will compete for Austria. We would like to make this decision together with our audience. Everyone can have a say in the decision, and all artists can apply to participate immediately.”

Let us know what you think about Austria and the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest – either in the comments below or on our FACEBOOK, BLUESKY, TWITTER, YOUTUBE, INSTAGRAM and TIKTOK pages.

The Eurovision Community, which Eurovision Ireland are a part of, celebrates diversity through music. Please keep your comments respectful. We will not tolerate racism, sexism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, body-shaming or any other derogatory or hostile language.

Author: Richard Taylor

Source: Eurovoix