Host broadcaster ORF has revealed more details about its plans for Eurovision Song Contest 2026.
Last week, the Austrian broadcaster revealed the event in May will be the first to use a fully LED- and laser-based lighting concept, eliminating the need for conventional light sources.
ORF has now announced the show will include more than 2,100 LED and laser units, as well as over 8,500 individually controllable LEDs. In addition, 80 high-speed winches will create dynamic lighting effects for the first time.
In the weeks running up to the semi-finals and grand final, hundreds of crew members will be at the show’s venue, Wiener Stadthalle, working on the setup, programming, and integration with video, automation, and camera technology.
ORF said the lighting team will be on duty around the clock to coordinate every single light signal, with all the effects created in a comprehensive 3D animation a month before the event arrives in Vienna.
“Eurovision is all about big moments,” said lighting designer, Tim Routledge. “The challenge was therefore to create something that is impressive and grand, while also being significantly more responsible behind the scenes.
“The fact that we are relying 100 per cent on LED and laser technology on this scale shows that you can have both—spectacular visuals and a sustainable production.”
