Eurovision Song Contest 2026: The Media Centre and the Delegation Bubble at the Wiener Stadthalle
The Media Centre and the Delegation Bubble at the Wiener Stadthalle will be key hubs for around 1,000 journalists and 35 delegations during this year’s Eurovision Song Contest: with its superbly equipped halls, ORF not only provides optimal working conditions but also ensures the well-being of everyone present throughout their stay.
Roman Horacek, Head of Communication for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026: “1,000 international journalists will be guests at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna. From my own experience, I know that they will spend a large part of their time in our media centre. That is why it was particularly important to us not only to offer them state-of-the-art working conditions, but also to create an attractive and pleasant workplace – after all, this is where stories, reports and images are created that will be seen around the world.”
“Eurovision is a happy place”: Optimal working conditions for journalists in the Media Centre
A central press conference area provides ideal conditions for media briefings and is used daily for the latest press updates. It features a podium for up to ten speakers and a camera riser with space for up to 15 cameras. A total of 268 seats are available for journalists, along with additional standing room. Four interview rooms, a streaming room, two radio booths and a broadcaster’s room can be booked to meet individual production requirements. This ensures a comprehensive infrastructure for professional media work. In addition, a welcome desk team is on hand to provide support with any queries. Throughout the Media Centre, there are designated backdrop areas for impromptu interviews. The technical equipment includes three large LED screens and seven information monitors, ensuring continuous coverage and up-to-date information for media representatives. Furthermore, journalists have access to a lounge area and an ‘Unplugged’ zone, designed in cooperation with Österreich Werbung, which offers space for relaxation and informal discussion. The range of services also includes a dedicated catering area for the media, 160 lockers and several refreshment stations with water, tea and coffee.
A comfort zone for performers and delegations: The Delegation Bubble
The Delegation Bubble is a backstage area designed specifically to meet the needs of artists and their delegations. The aim is to provide a safe, secure and comfortable environment in which participants can prepare for their performances in the best possible way. The concept of the „Delegation Bubble“ is based on a clear division into two parts: the „Connected Area“ comprises controlled zones where selected media activities and interactions can take place.
The „Disconnected Area“, on the other hand, is designed as a strictly private retreat and remains completely free of cameras and media presence. This separation ensures that both the public and personal needs of the artists are taken into account as effectively as possible.
To create an environment that serves as a “temporary home” during the intensive weeks of the event, the “Delegation Bubble” offers a comprehensive infrastructure and numerous services. These include a central welcome desk, individual changing rooms, a professionally equipped hair and make-up area, and a delegation lounge for relaxation and socialising. The facilities are complemented by a catering area, functional workspaces, and special quiet and relaxation zones. A dedicated room for vocal warm-ups is also available for artistic preparation. With this comprehensive approach, the ‘Delegation Bubble’ is setting new standards in the care and support of artists and delegations at the Eurovision Song Contest.
(April 29, 2026)