The venue for the in Austria has not yet been determined. ORF has initiated the application process, and initial exclusion criteria suggest where the event will not take place. A suitable hall must be exclusively available at least seven weeks before and one week after the final and must accommodate about 10,000 people.

Eurovision Song Contest 2026: Submission Deadline for Interested Host Cities by July 4

"ORF conducts a transparent, swift, and fair selection process with legal guidance," is promised in the nine-page expression of interest, which can be downloaded . When the completed form is submitted ([email protected]), interested venues will receive the detailed tender documents, with the highest confidentiality being emphasized - both by the interested parties and by ORF. Potential ESC host cities for 2026 must submit their detailed documents by July 4 at the latest if they wish to have the honor of representing Austria on the international media stage next year. According to the expression of interest, it is now clear when the final of the largest music competition will take place - either on May 16 or 23, 2026.

Otherwise, much remains secret regarding the detailed requirements for a song contest city for the coming year. However, the "Kurier" published an interview with ORF Director General Roland Weißmann parallel to the announcement of the tender criteria. In it, he makes it clear: "The framework conditions such as the size and availability of the hall, the accessibility of the host city, and the necessary capacities for accommodating the delegations, staff, and visitors are absolutely comparable to 2015."

The Criteria for the Eurovision Song Contest 2015

At that time, the most important criteria included that the venue be covered, soundproofed, lightproofed, and air-conditioned, with a minimum ceiling height of around 15 meters. Additionally, a "Green Room" for about 300 people (artists and delegations) had to be accommodated either in the hall or in its immediate vicinity. Furthermore, additional areas of about 6,000 square meters were required for the backstage area (catering, dressing rooms, makeup rooms, viewing room, commentator booths), around 4,000 square meters for the press center for the over 1,000 expected journalists, and sufficient space for an accreditation center. Roland Weißmann motivated potential host cities by referring to the indirect profitability and announced the motto of the framework they have set internally to the "Kurier": "Economical, but spectacular!"

(APA/Red)

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