When Vasil Garvanliev is on the podium for North Macedonia, he will be relieved. He was already there as a backing vocalist when Tamara Todevska finished seventh. In 2020 he would represent North Macedonia himself. This was canceled due to the Corona crisis. North Macedonian broadcaster selected him for the 2021 contest. But when the clip of “Here I stand” was published, it turned out that it contained three paintings in the colors of the Bulgarian flag. A petition was held by extreme nationalists not to send Vasil to the Eurovision song contest. The broadcaster started an investigation.
Fortunately, the whole story fizzled out. Eurovision fans organized a counter-petition and Vasil is allowed to go to Rotterdam after all.

Eurovision 2026
Road to Vienna: Luxembourg
Road to Vienna: Luxembourg We cannot wait for the Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna Therefore, we take a closer look at one of the contestants each day. Today, we highlight Luxembourg. Eva Marija: Luxembourg’s Voice for Eurovision 2026 Eva Marija Kavaš Puc, born on December 24, 2005, in Luxembourg, grew up in a multicultural Slovenian family. Inspired by Eurovision at a young age, she began learning violin early and later studied at the Conservatoire de Luxembourg. Her training in violin, vocals, piano, and bass shaped her versatile style, blending classical, jazz, and contemporary pop. From Young Performer to Songwriter By her early teens, Eva Marija was already performing live and writing her own songs. Her music focuses on emotional storytelling, authenticity, and personal reflection. She later moved to London to study songwriting, expanding her artistic vision and international influences. Music Releases and Artistic Growth Eva Marija debuted with “When 2 Lovers Meet” (2021), followed by “Toxic Trait” (2023) and later singles like “TIME TO GO” and “Sweet Child” (2025). Her sound evolved into a more mature, introspective pop style, earning her recognition in Luxembourg’s music scene. A Promising Future in Music Representing a new generation of artists, Eva Marija combines strong musical training with authentic songwriting. As she prepares for Eurovision, her steady growth and artistic focus position her as one of Luxembourg’s most promising emerging talents. Mother Nature: A Journey of Growth and Self-Discovery “Mother Nature” by Eva Marija explores personal growth and the path toward self-discovery. The song reflects how life evolves from simplicity into complexity, showing how challenges help shape identity and emotional maturity. Nature as a Symbol of Healing Nature is at the heart of the song’s meaning. It serves as a metaphor for renewal, balance, and inner strength. Just like the natural world, emotional healing is portrayed as a gradual and instinctive process. Letting Go and Finding Balance A central theme is learning to let go of doubt and emotional burdens. The song highlights acceptance, self-trust, and the importance of reconnecting with oneself to find inner balance. An Uplifting and Hopeful Message With its calm and introspective tone, “Mother Nature” delivers a positive message of renewal and self-acceptance. Eva Marija encourages listeners to embrace change and find strength through both vulnerability and connection to nature. Luxembourg in the Eurovision Song Contest Luxembourg has a storied history in the Eurovision Song Contest, participating 38 times since its debut in 1956. The country has won the contest five times: in 1961 (Jean-Claude Pascal‘s “Nous les amoureux”), 1965 (France Gall‘s “Poupée de cire, poupée de son”), 1972 (Vicky Leandros‘ “Après toi”), 1973 (Anne-Marie David‘s “Tu te reconnaîtras”, and 1983 (Corinne Hermès‘ “Si la vie est cadeau”). After a 31-year hiatus, Luxembourg returned to the contest in 2024. The Bookmakers Currently sitting 18th with the bookmakers, Luxembourg looks set for another Eurovision final — but could it climb even higher?