While the Albanian broadcaster RTSH has already confirmed the plans for “Festivali i Këngës 64”, it seems that Albania’s spot in Eurovision 2026 wasn’t certain.
Based on reports from the Albanian media (and especially Albanian Post), it has been clarified that RTSH gained a debt of 31,780 euros for past events, as well as 140,000 euros for the EBU membership fee that should have been paid by July 4th, 2025.
As a result, the EBU has launched a warning letter directly to Eni Vasili, RTSH Director.
Based on the letter, RTSH was at risk of facing some sanctions:
- Loss of access to one-sided broadcasts,
- Loss of access to special news and sports operations,
- Restrictions on the ability to acquire new sports rights,
- The inability to stand for or be re-elected to EBU governing bodies, committees, or groups.
Those sanctions could have even result in Albania losing its spot in Eurovision 2026!
But the story ends positively, as the EBU and RTSH reached an agreement to settle the debts.
The repayment agreement includes a specification of time periods and the amount of money that RTSH will pay.
“Festivali i Këngës 64” will be held in December, with the submission window closing on September 30th, 2025.
Shkodra Elektronike represented Albania in Eurovision 2025
They performed “Zjerm” and ended in 8th place
Eurovision 2026 will be held in Vienna, Austria, on May 12th, 14th, and 16th, 2026.
