This year marks Austria’s 56th participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. The nation’s second victory in the competition came in 2014 with Conchita Wurst‘s iconic win. Following this triumph, Vienna had the honour of hosting the Eurovision Song Contest in 2015, providing a spectacular backdrop for the event. The 2015 contest in Vienna was a truly enchanting experience, highlighting the finest aspects of the city and Austria as a whole. With its vibrant atmosphere, hospitable locals, and palpable enthusiasm, the event captured the essence of Austrian hospitality and left a lasting impression on all who attended.

Austria made its Eurovision Song Contest debut in 1957 with the song “Wohin, Kleines Pony” performed by Bob Martin, which, regrettably, landed the last place in the competition held in Frankfurt. However, this initial setback did not define Austria’s journey in the contest. Since then, Austria has participated 55 times, frequently making it to the Grand Final and securing a Top 10 position on at least 22 occasions.

Austria’s storied history in the Eurovision Song Contest boasts some unforgettable moments, including Udo Jürgens‘ triumph with “Merci Chérie” in 1966. Although Jürgens passed away in 2015, his musical legacy endures. He was a prolific artist, having sold over 105 million albums and composed more than 1000 songs, earning widespread acclaim not only in Austria and Germany but also internationally. The Eurovision Song Contest held a special significance for him. He had the privilege of witnessing Austria’s second victory in the contest, achieved by Conchita Wurst with “Rise Like A Phoenix” in Copenhagen 2014. Conchita’s win marked a remarkable turning point for Austria, which had faced criticism domestically but later hailed her as a hero. She emerged as an icon for the LGBTQ+ community and a symbol of tolerance and freedom worldwide, advocating passionately for equal rights.

Austria’s involvement in the Eurovision Song Contest has been consistent, although there were periods of absence due to unsuccessful entries in the early 2000s. The contest’s rule at the time stipulated that countries failing to place in the Top 10 had to skip a year. However, Austria returned with renewed vigor and enthusiasm. In 2011, Nadine Beiler delivered a captivating performance of “The Secret is Love” and successfully qualified for the grand final in Düsseldorf. Despite placing 18th overall, her rendition garnered acclaim, earning 12 points from the host country, Germany. The longstanding rivalry between Germany and Austria in Eurovision voting had softened, as both nations were historically conservative in awarding points to each other.

Last year, the duo Teya & Salena achieved a commendable 15th place in the Grand Final of Liverpool with their unconventional entry “Who the Hell is Edgar?” The song was considered a dark horse in the competition, surprising many with its unique and memorable performance.