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Bulgarian singer Dara has made history by winning the 70th Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, securing her country’s first-ever title with the explosive party anthem “Bangaranga.” Her commanding performance earned 516 points, placing her well ahead of the competition and electrifying the 10,000 spectators inside Wiener Stadthalle as well as millions watching across Europe.
A Historic Night for Bulgaria
Dara’s win marks a milestone for Bulgaria, a country that has come close in previous years but never reached the top. Her entry impressed both the international juries and the public vote, delivering a rare consensus that propelled her to the crown.
Second place went to Israel’s Noam Bettan, whose emotional performance surprised bookmakers and audiences alike. Romania’s Alexandra Căpitănescu completed the podium with a polished and powerful showing.
Upsets Among the Favorites
Pre-contest predictions had pointed strongly toward Finland’s duo Linda Lampenius & Pete Parkkonen, who had dominated betting charts for months. Yet the pair ultimately finished sixth, while Australia secured a strong fourth place. Another early favorite, Greece’s Akylas, slipped to tenth, underscoring a night full of unexpected turns.
Austria’s Home Disappointment
Austria’s representative Cosmó closed the show with the upbeat track “Tanzschein,” energizing the home crowd but failing to translate that enthusiasm into points. Austria collected only six points—one from Luxembourg’s jury and five from the public—finishing second to last, ahead only of the United Kingdom.
Glamour, Legends, and a 70‑Year Celebration
The anniversary show was hosted by Victoria Swarovski and Michael Ostrowski, with Swarovski drawing attention for wearing Chopard jewelry valued in the millions.
The milestone event also featured a star‑studded medley of Eurovision classics performed by legends including Lordi, Alexander Rybak, Erika Vikman, Max Mutzke, and Verka Serduchka. Austrian electro‑swing icon Parov Stelar delivered one of the evening’s standout interval acts.
25 Countries, One Winner
The final brought together 25 acts, opening with Denmark’s Søren Torpegaard Lund and closing with Austria’s Cosmó.
The contest returned to Vienna after JJ’s victory in 2025, and the city embraced the occasion with a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere.
A Night of Surprises
Dara’s victory—unexpected by many analysts—cements Bulgaria’s place in Eurovision history and sets the stage for a highly anticipated 2027 contest. Her win also underscores Eurovision’s enduring ability to surprise, delight, and unite audiences across borders.
- source: vienna.at/picture: eurovision.com
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