Hungary, which withdrew from Eurovision after the 2019 Tel Aviv contest, signals renewed interest. Will we see Hungary back in the competition in the coming years?
Hungary withdrew from the Eurovision Song Contest in 2019 after the edition held in Tel Aviv, and has since opposed a return each year. Lately, there has been a shift in Hungary’s approach. Although a comeback is not expected for Eurovision 2026, the country’s return as early as next year is a distinct possibility.
The Hungarian national broadcaster MTVA is seen by many as heavily influenced by the Hungarian government, which in recent years has been led by the far-right Fidesz party under Viktor Orban. Orban’s party is characterized by anti-LGBT policy, which many believe motivated Hungary’s exit from Eurovision—a contest that actively promotes the LGBT community.
In April 2026 elections will be held in Hungary, and for the first time, Orban’s party is trailing the moderate right-wing Tisza party—46% versus 39%. This is a major change, and if Hungary’s leadership does shift, the country is expected to become more pro-Western and closer to Europe, which could facilitate a Eurovision comeback. Although elections will occur too late for Eurovision 2026, we may well see Hungary’s return as soon as next year.
From Past to Future: Between Skepticism and Hope
Tisza party leader Peter Magyar responded positively when asked about Eurovision participation: “I don’t know if it’s the government’s responsibility, but if it is, we’ll certainly do it.” Magyar also referenced Hungarian artists like Abor & Tynna and Carson Coma, who have featured in Eurovision events and selection processes, calling Eurovision a great platform for Hungarian art.
Additionally, Magyar noted the absence is not for financial reasons, unlike Bulgaria and Romania, and agreed with the exclusion of Russia and Belarus: “I think it’s wrong that we’re not participating, we shouldn’t have withdrawn. I agree with removing Russia—we shouldn’t allow any war criminal to participate. If it’s up to the government, we’ll go for it.”
@tiszasziv Az Eurovíziós Dalfesztiválról #Tisza #aradatisza #magyarpeter ♬ eredeti hang – TiszaSzív❤️
Hungary in Eurovision
Hungary last participated in Eurovision in 2019, represented by singer Joci Pápai with his song “Az én apám.” Hungary did not qualify for the final, the first time this happened since 2009, and subsequently withdrew from Eurovision 2020, which was ultimately canceled.
