Will North Macedonia return to Eurovision after a three-year break?

North Macedonia might be back on the Eurovision stage in 2026 after a several-year hiatus. The Macedonian public broadcaster, MRT, is considering a return to Europe’s most-watched music competition, a topic that was discussed at the last Program Council meeting held on September 10, 2025.

According to the official announcement, as part of a policy to better involve citizens in the work of the public broadcaster, MRT has opened a special email address for viewers to send in their suggestions.

Among the numerous messages received, the request for the country to return to Eurovision stood out. Ivan Efremovski, a member of the Program Council, confirmed that many citizens highlighted the importance of promoting the country, its singers, and its songwriters, as well as the fact that Eurovision is one of the most-watched television events in the region.

„To determine how much public interest there is for a return, we need to open a public debate on this topic,“ said Efremovski.

North Macedonia last competed in 2022, when Andrea performed the song „Circles“ in Turin, but she failed to qualify for the Grand Final, finishing 11th in her semi-final. Although the country was registered for Eurovision 2023, it withdrew due to financial difficulties.

Despite this, MRT has not stopped its participation in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest, where the country regularly competes.

Bobi Andonov as a potential representative?

An additional reason for optimism among fans was provided by Bobi Andonov, the most successful Macedonian representative on the Eurovision stage to date, who finished fifth at the Junior Eurovision in 2008.

The singer, born in Melbourne to a family of Macedonian emigrants, has confirmed that he has already spoken with MRT about his desire to represent the country in 2026. „This is not just a dream, but a plan I’ve been seriously considering for a long time. If we return to Eurovision, I will give my whole heart and prepare a song that sounds global, but is also personal and authentic,“ Andonov stated.

He added that a return could awaken national pride and inspire future generations of musicians.

If MRT makes a positive decision, it’s clear that North Macedonia has the potential for a grand return to the Eurovision stage in 2026—this time perhaps with an artist who already has the experience and charisma needed for a great result.

Bobi Andonov at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2008.