In Belgium, 2 networks operate as national broadcasters:
- RTBF – French-speaking Community of Belgium
- VRT – Flemish Community of Belgium
The two broadcasters rotate selection for the Eurovision Song Contest each year.
For example, in the years 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2022, 2024 and 2026, it was RTBF’s responsibility to lead Eurovision participation. Meanwhile, in the years 2014, 2016, 2018, 2020 (and 2021, due to the fact that Eurovision was canceled), 2023, and 2025, it was VRT’s turn.
Therefore, VRT will lead the selection process for the country for Eurovision 2027.
The Belgian outlet hln.be reports that VRT has been granted a deadline extension to decide on Belgium’s participation in Eurovision 2027.
A similar pattern also applies to the Netherlands’ participation. NPO has received a deadline extension as well
Earlier this year, VRT stated that it encourages the EBU to hold a vote to determine Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2027 and to define the eligibility criteria for participating in Eurovision. However, the EBU has already ruled out such a vote.
A spokesperson for VRT spoke to De Morgen and said:
We are in dialogue with the EBU regarding the concerns we previously raised. Those discussions are still ongoing
Some media sources suggested that in the case of VRT‘s decision to withdraw, RTBF might take over the Eurovision participation. However, the RTBF spokesperson denied the idea and called it “empty rumors”.
Will Belgium participate in Eurovision 2027?
Essyla represented Belgium in Eurovision 2026.
She performed “Dancing On The Ice” and ended in21st place in the final:
Eurovision 2027 will be held in Burgas, Bulgaria on May 11th, 13th, 15th, 2027
