Full Breakdown
Noam Bettan to Represent Israel at Eurovision 2026
1/23/2026, 11:49:51 AM
Selection and Background
Noam Bettan has been selected to represent Israel at the 70th Eurovision Song Contest, scheduled for May 2026 in Vienna, Austria. Bettan, 27, won the Israeli singing competition "Hakochav Haba" ("The Next Star") this week, marking a significant moment as he is the first male contestant to represent Israel since 2022. Previous representatives included women such as Yuval Raphael in 2025 and Noa Kirel in 2023. Bettan, who was born in Israel to French immigrant parents, has gained recognition for his debut album "Above the Water," released in 2023, and his hit single "Madame," which he performed during the competition.
Performance and Public Reception
Bettan's performances have garnered significant attention, both domestically and internationally. His audition song "Madame" has been praised for its emotional depth, with Eurovision blogger EuroCelso noting, "He makes me feel emotional even though I do not know what he is singing about." Various YouTube channels have lauded his vocal abilities, with one host stating, "He was born to be a superstar." The anticipation surrounding his participation is palpable, with many hoping for a song that diverges from the ballads that have characterized Israel's recent entries.
Official Statements & Responses
Following his victory, Bettan expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Israel, stating, "I will give it my all, I’ll do everything I can to represent our country." The song he will perform at Eurovision will be selected by a committee from Israel's public broadcaster Kan, with an announcement expected in March 2026. Many Israelis have taken to social media to express their hopes for the contest to be held in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv, while local celebrities have humorously shown their support from abroad.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding Bettan's selection, Israel's participation in Eurovision has faced backlash. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) recently confirmed Israel's eligibility to compete, despite calls from several countries to ban Israel due to its military actions in the Gaza Strip during the Israel-Hamas war. In response, countries such as Spain, Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia have announced their withdrawal from the contest in protest. This situation has sparked a broader debate about the intersection of politics and cultural events like Eurovision.
What's Next
As the Eurovision Song Contest approaches, Bettan will participate in the first semifinal on May 12, 2026, with the grand final scheduled for May 16. The outcome of the competition will depend on both audience and jury votes, with the top ten from each semifinal advancing to the final round. The selection of his contest song will be a focal point in the lead-up to the event, as fans and critics alike await to see how Bettan will represent Israel on this international stage.
