Ireland’s Charlie McGettigan to return Eurovision trophy in protest of Israel’s participation
The move comes amid a broader controversy surrounding Israel’s inclusion in Eurovision. Following confirmation last week that Israel would remain in the competition, broadcasters in at least five countries — Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain — announced they would withdraw from the 2026 contest.
Ireland’s 1994 Eurovision Song Contest winner Charlie McGettigan has announced he will return his trophy in protest of Israel’s participation in the annual Europe-wide music competition, joining Swiss singer Nemo, last year’s champion, in a symbolic act, Anadolu reports.
McGettigan, who won the contest alongside fellow Irish singer Paul Harrington, said he plans to send the trophy to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the organisation responsible for Eurovision, in a video posted on social media.
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Speaking about his decision, McGettigan said Nemo had contacted him online to explain why they returned the 2024 trophy.
“They came across as sincere and a very intelligent person and stated their case very well, and therefore, in support of Nemo, I would like to return my trophy to the EBU as well,” said Harrington. “Unfortunately, our win was in 1994, and I can’t lay my hands on whatever trophy we received back then, but if I do find it, I will return my trophy as well.”
The move comes amid a broader controversy surrounding Israel’s inclusion in Eurovision. Following confirmation last week that Israel would remain in the competition, broadcasters in at least five countries — Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain — announced they would withdraw from the 2026 contest.
Nemo returned the 2024 trophy, citing what they viewed as a conflict between Eurovision’s stated values of unity, inclusion, and dignity, and Israel’s participation amid ongoing tensions in Gaza.
McGettigan’s decision to follow suit highlights growing criticism from artists and former winners about the competition’s handling of politically sensitive situations.
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