The path to the contest opened up for Canada last week when the Canadian public broadcasting corporation, CBC/Radio-Canada, became a full member of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes the annual festival.

Technically, Canada already has one victory to its name. Quebec native Celine Dion represented Switzerland in the 1988 contest and won the grand trophy with the song "Ne Partez Pas Sans Moi." Later, other Canadian performers also took the Eurovision stage:

• Natasha St-Pier (originally from the French-speaking region of New Brunswick) represented France in 2001.

• La Zarra (a singer from Montreal) also performed for France in 2023.

According to the organizers, Canada will debut in next year's semi-final, which will take place in Bulgaria. CBC/Radio-Canada promises to reveal details on how exactly the national selection for the Canadian contestant will be conducted later this year.

Financial support and EBU rules

Canada is by no means the first non-European country admitted to the music competition. Israel and Australia participate regularly, and a representative from Morocco took the stage in 1980.

According to Eurovision rules, countries whose broadcasters are members of the EBU are eligible to participate. Until recently, the CBC only held associate member status. "Canada's voice in our community will only make us stronger," commented EBU Director General Noel Curran.

Will the boycotting countries return?

It remains unclear whether the countries that boycotted the 2026 contest will participate next year. As a reminder, Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain withdrew from participation due to the EBU's decision to allow Israel into the competition.

The winner of the 2026 contest was Bulgarian pop star Dara with the song "Bangaranga." Thanks to her victory, Eurovision 2027 will be held in Sofia.