Screenshot: SVT
Drama at Eurovision 2026: Felicia, Sweden’s newly chosen representative, attacked Israel’s participation in a Swedish media interview, in clear violation of competition rules.
Only a day after being chosen to represent Sweden with her song “My System”, Felicia — winner of “Melodifestivalen 2026” – has sparked controversy. In an interview, she openly criticized Israel’s participation in Eurovision, raising concerns about a possible breach of the EBU’s competition regulations.
In her interview with the Swedish daily “Dagens Nyheter”, Felicia was asked about Israel’s participation in the contest. She replied:
“I don’t think they should be there, actually. That’s it. There are a lot of murders going on so I don’t think it’s right”.
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The EBU’s Code of Conduct – And Fears of a Breach
On December 10th, 2024, the EBU announced a series of new guidelines (Code Of Conduct), following behind-the-scenes frictions between various delegations and the Israeli delegation at Eurovision.
Among the main clauses:
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A prohibition on using the stage, interviews or Eurovision events to promote a political agenda.
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A prohibition on attacking a participating country or expressing a political stance that is not directly related to music.
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Preserving the apolitical nature of the Eurovision Song Contest.
The current statement was not made on the contest stage itself, but it was published on the official national final day and by leading candidates in Eurovision 2026 – which clearly raises questions about compliance with the rules.
A source familiar with the regulations explains:
“The code applies to any official activity related to the contest. If it is determined that there was a violation – sanctions can be imposed”.
Possible Consequences for Sweden
Currently, Sweden is ranked sixth among the bookmakers’ odds for Eurovision 2026 – positioning Felicia as a strong favorite. However, her statement against Israel could place Sweden in an awkward position and potentially trigger diplomatic or procedural repercussions even before rehearsals for the contest begin.
Sweden at Eurovision 2026:
“My System” is the song that will be performed by the singer Felicia, which will represent Sweden at Eurovision 2026 to be held in Vienna, Austria, on May 12th, 14th and 16th. The song was written by the artist herself Felicia Eriksson, together with Audun Agnar, Emily Harbakk, Julie Bergan and Theresa Rex. This is the first Eurovision entry by all songwriters.
Sweden is currently ranked 6th in the betting odds table.
Eurovision 2026: This will be Sweden’s 65th appearance in the competition. Sweden joined Eurovision in 1958 and has won the contest seven times over the years. The country’s most recent victory came in 2023, when Loreen won with the song “Tattoo”.
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Ido Na’aman is a journalist, content creator, and commentator specializing in the Eurovision Song Contest. His extensive knowledge and in-depth familiarity with the Eurovision world are reflected in every article, ensuring reliable, professional, and up-to-date content.
