Eurovision 2026: Favorites, Performances and Viewing Guide for the Netherlands

Eurovision 2026: Favorites, Performances and Viewing Guide for the Netherlands

The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 is approaching, and although excitement is as strong as ever, this year feels slightly different. While fans across Europe prepare for the world’s biggest music celebration, the Dutch microphone will remain silent.

In this guide, we’ll update you on what’s happening and how Dutch viewers can still fully enjoy the event. For those who enjoy extra excitement beyond music, there are also sports betting options available at Starcasino. However, betting on Eurovision itself is not offered, and new players may be eligible for a welcome bonus.

🇳🇱 Netherlands not at Eurovision 2026: what happened?

The Netherlands’ absence is a decision by AVROTROS. The broadcaster chose to withdraw because Israel’s participation, in their view, conflicts with public values, referring to the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Political tensions in 2025 also played a role. The Netherlands is not alone in this decision—countries such as Iceland and Spain are also not participating.

🎤 How Dutch fans can still follow Eurovision

Despite the boycott, the Netherlands remains one of the most passionate Eurovision-following countries in Europe. Dutch viewers are still allowed to vote, meaning they continue to have a say in determining the winner.

🇦🇹 Eurovision 2026 in Vienna: date, format & participants

The contest will take place at the Wiener Stadthalle in Vienna.

• Semi-finals: 12 & 14 May 2026

• Grand Final: 16 May 2026

Austria hosts the event after JJ won with the song “Wasted Love.”

This edition features 35 participating countries, making it one of the smallest in years. The show will be hosted by Victoria Swarovski and Michael Ostrowski.

⚖️ Eurovision odds in the Netherlands: why they are not available

Since the Dutch regulated gambling market opened in 2021, rules from the Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) are strict: only sports betting is allowed.

That means that, no matter how popular Eurovision betting markets are elsewhere, they are not permitted in the Netherlands.

Licensed operators such as Starcasino therefore do not offer Eurovision odds or markets, ensuring compliance and player protection.

⚠️ Eurovision betting sites: a warning for Dutch players

If you come across bookmakers offering Eurovision odds, be careful. A provider licensed by the KSA is not allowed to offer these bets.

Sites that do offer them are therefore operating without Dutch authorization. This carries risks such as:

• No guaranteed fair payouts

• No access to the CRUKS self-exclusion system

• Limited consumer protection

At regulated platforms like Starcasino, winnings and player safety are properly protected.

🌟 Eurovision 2026 favorites: who could win?

One country stands out clearly this year, although several strong challengers are close behind.

🇫🇮 Finland – Linda Lampenius & Pete Parkkonen (Top favorite)

Finland leads the rankings with Linda Lampenius and Pete Parkkonen. Their song “Liekinheitin” combines rock, classical, and dance elements in a bold way. The market currently sees Finland as the clear frontrunner.

🇫🇷 France, 🇩🇰 Denmark & 🇦🇺 Australia – strong challengers

Just behind Finland are France and Denmark. Australia is also performing strongly, with superstar Delta Goodrem and the song “Eclipse.”
France’s evolving role within the “Big Five” makes their position especially interesting this year.

🌙 Dark horses: 🇬🇷 Greece & 🇺🇦 Ukraine

Keep an eye on Greece and Ukraine. Greek artist Akylas, with “Ferto,” has seen rising interest in recent weeks. These are the kinds of acts that often gain momentum during Eurovision week and surprise everyone in the final results.

🇳🇱 Eurovision in the Netherlands: history & results

Even though the Netherlands is not participating in Vienna, the country has a strong Eurovision legacy with five wins:

🗳️ Can Dutch viewers still vote in Eurovision 2026?

Yes. During the Eurovision 2026 final, Dutch viewers can still vote via the official app, phone, or SMS. Even without participating on stage, the Netherlands continues to influence the outcome from the sidelines.