Bulgarian industry hails Eurovision win as ‘new beginning’
"Eurovision has put the spotlight here – the next step is to use it properly," says Ruth Koleva of the country's maiden victory
News By Hanna Ellington | 18 May 2026
Bulgaria took home the win at the 70th Eurovision Song Contest, a milestone which national industry executives say they hope will usher in a “new beginning” for the market’s music ecosystem.
Dara, the 27-year-old Bulgarian pop star, triumphed at the Vienna-hosted Grand Final on Saturday (16 May) with Bangaranga, marking the country’s first victory in the annual contest. Bulgaria only joined the competition in 2005 and sat out the last three editions, making this win that much more impactful.
“For…
You've used your free article this month
Continue reading with a free account, or subscribe for unlimited access to all of our news, features and reports.
