The city council of Innsbruck, whose voice is heard less in the media compared to its rival Vienna, is displaying significant optimism regarding the city’s chances of hosting Eurovision 2026! The Austrian national broadcaster (ORF) is expected to reveal the host city on August 20th between 7:30 and 8:30 AM. Which city will win the honor to host the contest?

The Innsbruck Story Isn’t Over?

It seemed in recent days that the Austrian capital, Vienna, had a strong momentum towards hosting Eurovision 2026. Now, Johannes Anzengruber, Innsbruck’s mayor, told German media that this is not the case: “Our chances are good. Our ambition, concept, and commitment have been very well received.”

The Innsbruck mayor highlights the advantages of Austria’s fifth-largest city compared to Vienna: “Our strength is that all the city’s events are within a 15-minute walking distance of one another.” He also says, “Arriving here by plane, train, or private car isn’t an issue,” for those doubting the city’s ability to host.

The head of the municipal tourism office, Peter Paul Molk, said he hopes decision-makers will choose to try something new. He added that the city’s Olympic Hall has undergone extensive renovation and can seat more than 15,000 spectators for the Eurovision broadcasts.

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.