The band MaNga, a former Turkish Eurovision representative, revealed in an interview that they are considering a comeback. Is Turkey set to return after 13 years of absence?
Members of the band MaNga, who represented Turkey at Eurovision 2010, stated in an interview that if Turkey decides to return in the future, they would consider taking part; even if not, they believe the country must return to the contest.
“Turkey definitely needs to participate. We feel we missed a huge opportunity there. In terms of cultural exchange, it’s a very important experience”.
Return Driven by a Feeling of Missed Opportunity – or Abstention Due to Intensity?
The band, who reached second place for Turkey at Eurovision 2010 with the song “We Could Be The Same” discussed their outstanding achievement and the highest placement by Turkey since its 2003 win in an interview with Hürriyet’s YouTube channel:
“After the singer Sertab Erener, we reached one of Turkey’s highest ever Eurovision achievements. People often ask if we’ll return. We received offers and considered them over time, but currently, with our lifestyle now, it’s simply not possible”.
It appears MaNga is not planning a return to Eurovision in the near future, citing the event’s intensity:
“You dedicate a full six months to promotion. Those six months are not just about the artist, but also the media and public need to be truly committed, because that’s the only way to win. It’s not just a music contest – it’s a system where many cogs work together”.
If Not as Contestants – Perhaps Behind the Scenes?
MaNga’s possible comeback to Eurovision might happen behind the scenes, with members expressing interest in joining the delegation:
“We would be glad if MaNga could coach or accompany Turkey at Eurovision, support participants, and help them succeed. It would be a lot of fun. A band that achieved this kind of success and can train others could be very useful”.
Will Turkey Return to Eurovision?
Besides MaNga, singers such as Serhat and Turkish singer Demet Akalın have also expressed a desire to represent Turkey in Eurovision. These are significant statements for Eurovision fans, as Turkey’s return has fueled public debate for years. Despite rising enthusiasm among artists and fans, the Turkish national broadcaster TRT has yet to announce an intention to return, likely due to Turkey’s government’s Islamist policies, which clash with the liberal values of the contest.
MaNga – Who Are You?
MaNga is a Turkish rock band from Ankara, active since 2001. Its members are Ferman Akgül, Yağmur Sarıgül, Cem Bahtiyar, and Özgür Can Öney. Past members include Orçun Şekerusta and Efe Yılmaz. The band broke through after placing second at the “Sing Your Song” contest, leading to a Sony Music signing and debut album release in 2004. MaNga’s successful albums feature songs used in Turkish films and even in the FIFA 06 video game.
The band competed at Eurovision 2010 with “We Could Be The Same” earning an impressive second place with 170 points!
Turkey at Eurovision
Turkey withdrew from the Eurovision Song Contest in 2013 due to disagreements with some contest rules, such as the automatic final qualification of the Big Five countries (Italy, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Spain). Some sources indicate that the contest’s support for the LGBTQ+ community also influenced the decision of conservative Turkey to leave. The European Broadcasting Union has welcomed Turkey’s return several times. In January 2019, a surprising statement was released by the chairman of the Eurovision focus group suggesting that Turkey might be added to the Big Five countries.
Turkey’s last participation was in Eurovision 2012 with the song “Love Me Back,” performed by Can Bonomo, who placed seventh. Before its withdrawal, the Middle Eastern country was one of the major contestants with a dedicated viewership. In 2009, Eurovision achieved ratings of 58.54%, with tens of millions watching the contest.
Turkey has won Eurovision only once, in 2003, when singer Sertab Erener performed the song “Everyway That I Can”.
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Shahar Chacha Asido is an Israeli journalist and content creator who covers various aspects of the Eurovision Song Contest—from commentary and professional analysis to insights into the surrounding pop culture. As a Eurovision specialist, she provides extensive knowledge about the contest’s history, rules, and the latest developments. Since 2023, she has been reporting up close from the press center in the host city, with regular updates, exclusive interviews, and unique commentary from the heart of the event—such as from Liverpool (2023), Malmö (2024), or Basel (2025). Chacha has also been interviewed by major media outlets in Israel and worldwide.
In addition, Chacha is a rhythmic gymnastics instructor and choreographer.
