New Eurovision rules: Who can host and live singing

The Eurovision Song Contest will no longer automatically grant hosting rights to the winning country under new regulations established by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). A nation must now be considered safe to host the competition.

This significant change means that a winning country cannot host if "armed conflict, a sensitive geopolitical situation, or other circumstances significantly endanger the safety or stability of that country or the immediate region," according to the EBU. The EBU reserves the right to conduct independent security assessments and can assign hosting duties to a different broadcaster if the winning nation is deemed unsuitable.

While no specific countries were named, the new rules come in the wake of controversies surrounding Israel's participation due to the war in Gaza. Several countries, including Spain and the Netherlands, boycotted the event this year. Israel's representative finished second, narrowly missing out on the win and the automatic right to host next year.

In addition to the hosting rule, the EBU has raised the minimum age for participants from 16 to 18. This measure aims to protect younger artists from the intense pressure associated with the contest. Furthermore, the EBU reiterated that the lead singer's performance must be live, with no pre-recorded vocals allowed, to preserve the integrity of each act.

Martin Green, Eurovision's Head of Show, stated that the contest is constantly evolving and that the annual review of the rules is crucial for maintaining fairness and transparency for all participants. The article also notes that Bulgaria won the most recent contest in Malmö, Sweden, with singer Taya's song "Bangaranga," meaning Bulgaria would have been the default host for 2025. Canada will also participate for the first time.