José Pablo López, president of Spanish broadcaster RTVE, has revealed his intention to propose to the broadcaster’s Board of Directors that Spain remain absent from the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027. This announcement followed Spain's withdrawal from the 2026 contest, triggered by Israel's continued participation amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

RTVE's Firm Position on Eurovision Participation

López stated the broadcaster's stance is rooted in human sensitivity towards the suffering of the Palestinian people, emphasizing a strong condemnation of what he described as an "intolerable human tragedy." He remarked, "No one with the slightest human sensitivity can witness the suffering of the Palestinian people without strongly and firmly condemning it."

RTVE has engaged in negotiations with the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) alongside other European public broadcasters, resulting in implemented changes including stricter governance, penalization of political instrumentalization attempts, and reinforced neutrality of sponsorships and the contest. However, López acknowledged that despite these advances, ethical concerns remain unresolved due to Israel's public broadcaster continuing its role in the contest.

Next Steps and EBU Response

The proposal will now be considered by RTVE's Board of Directors, who will decide on Spain’s Eurovision participation for 2027. In response, Martin Green, Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, issued a statement respecting RTVE’s internal process and expressing regret at Spain’s potential absence. He highlighted reforms made by the Eurovision Reference Group including stronger safeguards against undue influence, revamped voting systems with professional juries, and measures to ensure a safe hosting environment.

Green also underlined Spain's long-standing contribution since its Eurovision debut in 1961 and expressed hope for RTVE’s return to the contest.

Background: Spain's Eurovision Withdrawal and History

Spain's dispute with the EBU originated in 2025 following Spain's call for a full review of the voting system and a request for an independent external audit. RTVE's Board decided in September 2025 that Spain would not participate in Eurovision 2026 if Israel remained in the competition, and also decided not to broadcast the event under those circumstances.

Spain's withdrawal for 2026 was confirmed after the EBU introduced changes but allowed Israel's participation to continue. Other countries including Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia also did not participate in Eurovision 2026 in Vienna due to similar concerns.

Spain has competed in Eurovision 64 times since 1961, winning twice in 1968 and 1969. As a "Big-5" member, Spain automatically qualifies for the final. The country's notable entries include "Eres Tú" (1973), placing second, and it holds the record of finishing last five times, including twice earning zero points.