According to a report from a local newspaper, Austria’s national broadcaster ORF will disclose the host city’s identity on August 20 between 8:30-9:30 AM (Israel time). The choice is between the two remaining cities in the race to host the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest: Vienna and Innsbruck. After JJ (JJ) brought victory to Austria with the song “Wasted Love“, several cities in the country expressed interest in hosting the contest, but now only these two finalists remain. Who will win the honor of being the next Eurovision host?

The Final Sprint: ORF’s Upcoming Host City Announcement

The race to host the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in Austria is entering its critical stage, with just two cities left—Vienna and Innsbruck—competing for the opportunity to stage Europe’s most prestigious musical event. The national broadcaster ORF will announce on August 20 which city will be awarded this coveted title. This decision is one of the most anticipated moments of the year as preparations for next May’s contest in Austria intensify.

According to the ORF’s statement, the final choice will be made and the host city revealed on August 20, though no official confirmation of the Grand Final’s exact date—either May 16 or May 23, 2026—has been provided. “With Vienna and Innsbruck, we have two strong contenders fully capable of staging the world’s largest televised entertainment event,” remarked Roland Weißmann, Director General of ORF, in an official press release. Eurovision executive producer Michael Krön also highlighted the creativity and dedication demonstrated by both cities’ project teams.

The Battle Between Vienna and Innsbruck: Tradition vs. Innovation

Innsbruck:

The capital of Tyrol in western Austria declared its intent to bid for Eurovision 2026 immediately after the country’s victory. Innsbruck’s hosting proposal centers on the “OlympiaWorld” complex, originally built for the 1964 Winter Olympics, featuring the impressive “Olympiahalle” arena. This established and experienced venue is designed for major events and can accommodate around 12,000 spectators. Innsbruck previously attempted to host the contest in 2015, making it to the final three cities in the selection process. Now, equipped with experience, advanced infrastructure, and an Olympic spirit, the city stands as a particularly strong contender.

Vienna:

Vienna, Austria’s capital and previous host of the contest in 1967 and 2015, has reached the final stage and is keen to host Eurovision once again in 2026. The event may once again take place at the “Wiener Stadthalle,” as it did in 2015. Vienna offers proven experience, advanced infrastructure, and an international atmosphere.