19:30 14 April, 2026Eurovision 2026 is just around the corner, and fans are preparing for the grand final, which will take place on May 16 in Vienna. However, the most intriguing question still hangs in the air: who will take the expected victory home?
This year’s competition is already shaping up to be one of the most dynamic and unpredictable editions in recent years. Over its 70-year history, the perception and nature of Eurovision have significantly evolved, moving beyond a simple music show and turning into a global pop culture phenomenon driven by streaming, social media, and active fan engagement.
From clear betting favorites to viral music videos, the race for the trophy is beginning to take shape even before the first live performance. NEWS.am STYLE has explored the pre-contest landscape and the current favorites.
Favorites: Who Are the Leaders?
Several websites have launched polls to get an approximate understanding of who fans consider the likely winners of the contest.
According to Eurovisionworld.com, Finland is at the center of discussions, currently dominating the rankings and considered the main favorite. Finland is represented this year by Linda Lampenius and Pete Parkkonen with the song Liekinheitin. The song has more than 2.5 million views on the official Eurovision YouTube channel.
Denmark has also secured its place among the leaders. Søren Torpegaard Lund’s song Før Vi Går Hjem has reached 2.1 million views on YouTube.
France is currently in the top three with a refined and emotionally powerful entry. This year, the country is represented by Monroe. The music video for the song Regarde has 1.9 million views on YouTube.
In Eurovoix.com’s ranking, the top two positions are held by the same countries, followed by Sweden, Australia, Greece, and Cyprus. France, which was third in the previous ranking, is seventh here, followed by Italy and Bulgaria, while Austria rounds out the top ten.
Armenia at Eurovision 2026: What Are Simón’s Chances?
This year, Armenia is represented by Simón with the energetic track Paloma Rumba. Simón not only sings but also dances, and has already impressed European audiences with his incredible energy and dynamic movements during the promotional tour in Amsterdam. During this concert, representatives of participating countries gave their first live performances within the Eurovision framework.
Comments from European viewers under Armenia’s performance videos are mostly positive and encouraging. However, the overall picture in global rankings remains unchanged. On Eurovisionworld, Simón is ranked 25th, while on Eurovoix he is 32nd.
Paloma Rumba has 988 thousand views on YouTube.
However, it is important to remember that these results are not final. Impressions and decisions often change after the first rehearsals and final performances. For now, Armenian fans can actively participate in voting and support their representative not only through polls but also with encouraging words. After all, he represents not only himself, but an entire country.
The first semi-final of Eurovision will take place on May 12, the second on May 14, and the grand final on May 16.
Armenia’s representative Simón will perform in the second semi-final of Eurovision 2026, performing 6th in the running order.
We wish Simón the best of luck.
Syune Arakelyan