The Google Document That Unveiled the Horror

The Luxembourg news site RTL Today reported that the investigation centered on a document ironically titled “Fun time for Eurovision 2020 – For a better and less over-accepting future.” The file detailed attack methods including poisoning with cyanide and ricin gas, dispersing chlorine through ventilation systems, and even launching improvised rockets. The aim was to sow fear, confusion, and destruction at one of the world’s largest cultural events.

A raid on the suspect’s home uncovered materials for producing chlorine gas, rocket prototypes, and evidence of attempts to infiltrate security teams and block emergency exits at the contest venue.

The Plot: Only the Tip of the Iceberg

The ongoing trial exposes not only the Eurovision attack plans but also a series of additional extremist actions, including:

• Planning an attack on a fuel facility in a Swedish town near the suspect’s mother’s home.

• Monitoring power stations in the Netherlands as preparation for an assault.

• Mailing a bomb to a Swedish advertising firm in response to a campaign depicting the multicultural roots of Nordic symbols.

According to the indictment, the suspect used the alias “Jagrollig” (“I’m funny” in Swedish) and maintained ties with groups such as The Base and The Green Brigade, both considered radical right-wing organizations active online and offline.

Fire Instead of Animals: Arson as Political Statement

Before the Eurovision plans, the young man contacted The Green Brigade and proposed setting fire to an empty mink farm in Sweden—solely to produce an extremist propaganda video. The investigation found there were no animals at the site, but the act was carried out and filmed as part of a campaign aimed at inspiring potential supporters.

He had already been convicted for this act, along with another accomplice who attended the Luxembourg court proceedings this week.

Fears of Continued Radicalization

Luxembourg authorities expressed skepticism regarding claims that the suspect had severed ties with neo-Nazi ideology. They noted that even after the death of George Floyd, he and his associates disrupted a University of Miami Zoom meeting attended by Floyd’s parents, flooding the chat with racist slogans such as praise for Hitler and white supremacy. Investigators described the young man as still dangerous and deeply radicalized.

Despite his young age at the time—some acts were committed when he was just 18—the suspect was labeled by police as demonstrating “deep ideological commitment.” He organized shooting drills on his family’s property, distributed bomb-making guides online, and joined paramilitary groups. As one investigator testified, “This is not a confused teenager, but an active and dangerous far-right extremist.” Since 2021, the young man has been released and started studying chemistry in Sweden, but police report no clear indication of him abandoning his extremist path.

On-the-Ground Voices: Passing Threat or Ongoing Danger?

From a professional perspective, Eurovision is seen as a particularly attractive target for extremists. It is an international event celebrating diversity, tolerance, and community—values perceived as threatening to racist ideologies. Not coincidentally, extremist groups online sometimes describe Eurovision as a “progressive carnival” to be fought against.

Although the attack attempts were foiled, Eurovision fans across Europe have mixed feelings. Attendees of the 2024 and 2025 contests shared security concerns ahead of the competitions. During my stay at the most recent Eurovision in Basel, I witnessed extreme protests against Israel and the contest, which could have endangered myself and many others. Fortunately, the city of Basel and the Eurovision production ensured robust security around all contest venues and fan areas, successfully safeguarding all events and surroundings, creating a secure atmosphere throughout.

At Eurovision 2012 in Baku, Azerbaijan—a country with an open border with Iran—forty suspects affiliated with a terror organization were arrested after planning attacks before and during the contest (including at the hotel where the Israeli delegation was staying). Sadly, this is not the first time a plot has targeted the European contest.

Conclusion: A Lesson for 2026?

Although Eurovision 2020 ultimately did not take place, the case serves as a disturbing reminder that even a music celebration can become a target. Looking ahead to Eurovision 2026 in Austria, increased security—both on-site and behind the scenes—is likely. Given such reports, Austria and future host countries are expected to follow the example of the heightened security at the last two Eurovision contests to ensure the safety of all attendees.

This revelation resonates not only with police and decision-makers but also with younger audiences who identify with the contest’s values and equally expect safety. The fact that such an attempt occurred, even if thwarted, cannot be forgotten.