On May 12, the first semi-final of Eurovision 2026 will kick off in Vienna, where representatives from 15 countries will compete for 10 spots in the grand final of the song contest. While the participants prepare for their performances, bookmakers have already identified the main favorites of the show, who may not only advance further but also claim overall victory.
This is reported by Finway
Main Favorite of the Semi-Final and Possible Winner of Eurovision 2026
According to the latest predictions from bookmakers, Finland is considered the undeniable leader of the first semi-final and the entire competition. The duo of virtuoso violinist Linda Lampenius and Pita Parkkonen with the composition “Liekinheitin” (translated as “Flamethrower”) has received significant resonance among viewers and experts after rehearsals. Their chance of making it to the final is estimated at over 97%, while the probability of ultimate victory stands at 34%. A distinctive feature of the Finnish duo’s performance is the combination of energetic rock, live violin playing, and a spectacular fire show.
“The combination of aggressive Finnish rock, live violin performance, and a spectacular fire show.”
Top 5 Participants of the First Semi-Final
In addition to Finland, the top five leaders of the first semi-final include countries with original pop and ethnic tracks:
- Greece (Akylas — “Ferto”): Modern ethnic pop has secured Greece the second place in the predictions with a 97% chance of reaching the final.
- Israel (Noam Bettan — “Michelle”): A lyrical ballad that has already become a favorite of the professional jury. The chances of reaching the final are also 97%.
- Sweden (FELICIA — “My System”): A powerful performance and quality music give Sweden a stable 96% chance of advancing further.
- Croatia (LELEK — “Andromeda”): An impressive cosmic show and charismatic vocals keep Croatia among the favorites with a 93% chance of advancing.
Ranking of countries participating in the first semi-final of Eurovision. Photo: Eurovision
Ukraine’s Participation and Contest Broadcast
This year, Ukraine will be represented at Eurovision by Leléka, but her performance is scheduled for the second semi-final, which will take place on May 14. Currently, Ukraine is in 11th place in the overall ranking of participants.
The first semi-final will begin on May 12 at 22:00 Kyiv time. The broadcast can be watched on the YouTube channel “Eurovision Ukraine,” where a pre-show featuring Timur Miroshnychenko, Vasyl Baidak, Svitlana Tarabarova, and alyona alyona will start at 21:30. Additionally, the broadcast will be available with sign language interpretation on the “Public Eurovision” website.
Viewers will be able to vote for their favorite performer through the Eurovision Song Contest App, SMS, phone call (numbers will be announced live), or the platform esc.vote. Within one voting method, no more than 10 votes can be cast.