Moldova expands Eurovision 2026 final to 16 artists after high-caliber auditions
Sixteen artists have secured their spots in the Eurovision 2026 National Final. The finalists were selected on December 16 following intense live auditions organized as part of the country’s official selection process.
Out of 37 registered participants, 34 took to the stage to impress the jury, while three others withdrew from the competition.
Although rules initially limited the selection to 10 acts, the public broadcaster Teleradio-Moldova (TRM) invoked a regulatory provision to expand the lineup. In collaboration with the show's producers, the organizers increased the number of finalists to 16, citing a surge of high-caliber tracks and polished, stage-ready deliveries.
"The live auditions were crucial in identifying who is truly prepared for a major stage," said musical producer Serghei Orlov. "Beyond vocal ability, we prioritized charisma and the artists' capacity to connect with an audience. We recognized a depth of talent that exceeded our initial expectations, and we wanted to give these artists the chance to perform at the Chișinău Arena during the National Final on January 17."
Throughout the six-hour audition process, producers provided tailored feedback to each performer, focusing on refining musical arrangements and vocal dynamics for the next stage of the competition.
"We have our finalists! Now begins a month of intensive work to sharpen these performances for a world-class final," added musical producer Roman Burlaca. "Regardless of who wins, every participant is set to deliver a standout show."
The 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest will take place in Vienna, Austria, with semifinals on May 12 and 14, followed by the Grand Final on May 16.
This year marks Moldova’s 20th appearance in the contest. The nation’s historic peak remains 2017, when the band SunStroke Project claimed third place with the hit "Hey Mamma."
Translation by Iurie Tataru
