Eurovision director Martin Green mentioned to the BBC on Wednesday that Canada could potentially join the renowned song contest, although there has been no formal request or decision made yet. Addressing the speculations surrounding Prime Minister Mark Carney’s interest in Canada’s participation in Eurovision, Green acknowledged being aware of the rumors.
“We are aware of Mark Carney’s desire to embrace Europe,” Green stated. “While nothing definitive has crossed my desk, we are open-minded. For 70 years, we have kept our doors open, welcoming anyone who shares the values of this remarkable event and wishes to grace our stage with friends.”
The Eurovision Song Contest, known for original song performances by countries, is overseen by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). While full participation in the annual singing competition has typically been restricted to EBU’s full member broadcasters, exceptions have been made in recent years for a few non-European or associate-member participants. Australia, for example, was initially invited to compete as a one-time feature in 2015 and has since participated in subsequent contests under special arrangements.
CBC/Radio-Canada holds associate membership in the EBU, a status maintained since 1950. Despite being an associate member, Leon Mar, the broadcaster’s senior director of public affairs, clarified that this status does not grant eligibility for Eurovision competition. Mar emphasized, “Participation in the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) is reserved for public broadcasters who are full EBU members. As an associate member, CBC/Radio-Canada is not eligible to participate in the ESC.”
Mar confirmed that CBC/Radio-Canada is actively engaging with the EBU and has a presence at the contest. He mentioned ongoing discussions with the EBU to enhance collaboration and content exchange through initiatives like the Eurovision News Exchange and the Euroradio Music Exchange. Additionally, Mar highlighted the broadcaster’s editorial independence, noting its autonomous operation as a federal Crown corporation.
The notion of Canada joining Eurovision briefly emerged in last year’s federal budget, with discussions ongoing between the government and CBC/Radio-Canada regarding potential participation. While Carney was reportedly involved in advancing the initiative, Mar suggested reaching out to the EBU directly for specifics on Australia’s unique participation status outside the EBU’s usual geographic domain.
As of now, the potential for Canada’s participation in Eurovision remains open, contingent upon EBU approval and the submission of a formal proposal. There has been no official application or timeline disclosed for Canada’s involvement. The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 is currently progressing through its semi-final rounds, with the final scheduled for Saturday.