After six years of absence and a political upheaval that stunned the world, Hungary is poised to announce its return to Eurovision – possibly as early as next year.

Hungary withdrew from the Eurovision Song Contest in 2019 after the edition held in Tel Aviv, and has since opposed a return each year.  Last night, elections were held in Hungary, and the far-right government fell, paving the way for the country’s return to the contest.

Many believe the Hungarian national broadcaster MTVA was heavily influenced by the Hungarian government’s policy, which in recent years has been controlled by the far-right party “Fidesz”, led by Victor Orban. Orban’s party is characterised by anti-LGBTQ+ policies, and for many this is the reason Hungary withdrew from Eurovision, a contest that openly promotes the LGBTQ+ community.

Last night, elections took place in the country, and the “Tisza” party, led by Peter Magyar, was elected by a massive majority to take the reins of government. Magyar has previously been asked about Eurovision participation and responded positively: “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agreed with the exclusion of Russia and Belarus: “I think it’s wrong that we’re not participating, we shouldn’t have withdrawn.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❤️

The newly elected Hungarian government now faces many challenges, including “cleaning out the stables” of officials from the previous regime, constitutional changes, and strengthening the country’s orientation toward both the European Union and the European Broadcasting Union.

If the government successfully overcomes all these challenges and the Hungarian national broadcaster remains fully functional until the coming autumn, all signs indicate that we will likely soon see Hungary announce its return to Eurovision 2027.

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.