After earlier reports that North Macedonia won’t return to Eurovision 2026, MRT revealed that there is a chance that North Macedonia will make a surprising comeback to Eurovision 2026 to be held in Vienna, Austria.
On October 30, MRT revealed that it is still discussing participation in Eurovision 2026, set to take place in Vienna, Austria. This comes despite an announcement from October 21 stating that North Macedonia would not join the 2026 contest but might return in 2027.
Earlier this year, it was reported that Australian-Macedonian singer Bobby Andonov had expressed a clear interest in helping his country return to the competition. The artist, who delivered one of North Macedonia’s strongest Eurovision Junior results in 2008 with the entry “Parti Mi SMS”, has openly stated his dedication to bringing the nation back to the main Eurovision stage.
Public support for the comeback has also grown steadily over recent months, with rising calls online and in local media for MRT to rejoin one of Europe’s most-watched events.
MRT’s Official Statement
MRT released an official statement addressing possible participation:
“North Macedonia’s participation in Eurovision 2026 remains undecided. The final decision depends on numerous factors, including economic considerations, the concept for artist selection and staging strategy, as well as analysis of previous experiences. We will carefully evaluate all aspects to make the best decision for public service values, cultural promotion, and audience expectations.”
North Macedonia last competed in Eurovision in 2022 but withdrew in subsequent years due to financial constraints. Nevertheless, the country continues to take part in Junior Eurovision and has already selected its next representative.
Interestingly, MRT announced in September that it will broadcast Eurovision 2026 live, regardless of whether the country competes. The decision signals a strong cultural attachment to the event and highlights Eurovision’s lasting appeal among Macedonian viewers.
Skopje Fest Could Lead the Way
Another positive sign of potential revival is the broadcaster’s renewed investment in Skopje Fest – a historic national music festival previously used to select North Macedonia’s Eurovision entries in years such as 1996, 1998, 2000, 2002–2004, 2008–2011, and 2015.
This move sparked speculation that MRT could employ the festival again for its next selection process. With growing excitement and international anticipation, many fans hope to see the Macedonian flag fly once again on the Eurovision stage in Vienna.
North Macedonia’s Unique Eurovision Legacy
Though North Macedonia has never won Eurovision, its representatives have left a distinctive mark on the competition through powerful and emotional performances. Among the most memorable was Tamara Todevska, who placed seventh at the Eurovision 2019 final in Tel Aviv with “Proud”, achieving first place in the jury vote.
Over time, the country’s approach has varied between open national selections like Skopje Fest and internal choices during times of budget restraint. No matter the format, Macedonian acts have consistently been praised for creativity, authenticity, and passion that resonate strongly with audiences across Europe.
North Macedonia in Eurovision 2022
Andrea represented North Macedonia with her song “Circles” after winning the local national final. She competed in the second semi-final and finished in 11th place with 76 points.
Eurovision 2022: This was North Macedonia’s 21st participation in Eurovision. North Macedonia joined the competition in 1998 and achieved its best result in Eurovision 2019 when singer Tamara Todevska finished in seventh place with the song “Proud”.
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A writer and content creator in the field of Eurovision, a commentator with extensive expertise in the modern era of the contest. Adiel’s vast knowledge and familiarity with Eurovision are reflected in every article, ensuring professional and up-to-date content. He closely follows song releases and various Eurovision pre-events. Adiel has a fondness for cultures and new languages, which he discovered through his love of Eurovision. In his writing, he places great emphasis on professional commentary and a diversity of opinions.
