The debate over Ireland’s future participation in the Eurovision Song Contest has reignited after former Eurovision winner Charlie McGettigan called on RTÉ to maintain its boycott of the competition while Israel remains a participant.
Why Is Ireland Boycotting Eurovision?
Ireland, the joint most successful nation in Eurovision history with seven victories, did not take part in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest. In December 2025, Irish public broadcaster RTÉ announced it would neither participate in nor broadcast the contest after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) confirmed that Israel would remain in the competition. The decision was described by RTÉ as an independent editorial choice.
Ireland was joined by several other EBU broadcasters that also withdrew from the 2026 contest over the same issue, making it one of the most politically contentious editions in Eurovision’s history.
Charlie McGettigan Urges RTÉ Not to Return
The discussion has resurfaced following comments from Charlie McGettigan, who won Eurovision for Ireland in 1994 with Rock ‘n’ Roll Kids alongside Paul Harrington.
Speaking after Israel confirmed its participation in Eurovision 2027 in Bulgaria, McGettigan argued that RTÉ should continue its boycott if the circumstances remain unchanged. He said he believes it would be difficult for the broadcaster to reverse its position and claimed there would be little public support for returning under the current conditions.
McGettigan also questioned the integrity of Eurovision’s televoting system, echoing concerns previously raised by several artists and public figures following recent contests.
No Official Decision for Eurovision 2027
Despite the renewed public debate, RTÉ has not announced whether Ireland will participate in Eurovision 2027. The broadcaster has made no new official statement regarding next year’s contest, meaning Ireland’s plans remain undecided.
With Bulgaria preparing to host Eurovision 2027, fans across Europe will be watching closely to see whether Ireland returns to the competition or extends its absence for a second consecutive year. An official participation list is expected to become clearer in the coming months as broadcasters submit their entries to the EBU.