The turquoise carpet is a Eurovision tradition; it's where all the artists walk with their teams after the opening ceremony to speak to the media and show themselves off.
Israel thanks
For a few years now, there have been guidelines stating that journalists should not ask any questions about politics. This year, when five of the countries that normally compete have dropped out due to Israel's participation, the issue is hotter than ever. But it's not noticeable on the turquoise carpet.
"I am so happy and want to thank you for all the support we have received," Israeli singer Noam Bettan says on Austrian TV channel ORF's broadcast.
However, Israel is not among this year's favorites.
"I'm really going to go out and do my best to ensure we take home the victory this year," Delta Goodrem tells TT.
She is a big star in her home country and has appeared in the TV soap opera "Neighbors." One of the songwriters for Australia’s entry, "Eclipse," is Swedish Jonas Myrin.
Veterans
Estonian trio Vanilla Ninja are veterans in this context; they have competed once already - for Switzerland in 2005.
"The atmosphere is still the same, but everything is different. Back then there was no turquoise carpet, no social media and we didn't represent our home country," says group member Piret Järvis.
Swedish Felicia had already made headlines before the competition by expressing in interviews that she did not think Israel should be allowed to participate in the competition. However, under the turquoise carpet she kept the mask on - in a double sense.
"I'm so fucking ready to do my thing," she said on ORF's broadcast.
Facts: Eurovision Song Contest 2026
Where: Vienna, Austria.
When: May 12–16. Semi-final 1, May 12, semi-final 2, May 14 and final May 16.
Participants: 35 countries. The lowest number in over 20 years. Five countries – Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain – have withdrawn, citing Israel being allowed to participate in the competition despite its war in Gaza.
Sweden is represented by Felicia with the song "My system".
