Bulgaria Wins Eurovision 2026 in Upset Victory; Israel Finishes Second
Bulgarian performer Dara won the 70th Eurovision Song Contest with the song "Bangaranga," defeating 24 other nations including Israel who placed second. The victory was unexpected as Bulgaria was not among pre-contest favorites.
Contest Winner
Bulgaria is celebrating victory at the Eurovision 2026 grand final following a nail-biting final which saw Israel relegated to second place after a huge public vote decided the winner.
Dara's Performance
Dara and her song "Bangaranga" skyrocketed Bulgaria to first place at the 70th Eurovision Song Contest. Bulgaria was not among the favorites to win. But performer Dara's catchy, banging anthem bested 24 other nations at the 70th edition of the international singing extravaganza.
Context
The final of the Eurovision Contest arrives Saturday, with tight security and rainy weather failing to dent the enthusiasm of fans, or the opposition of critics who think Israel shouldn't be invited.