Reactions: the artists who missed the final

The Eurovision 2026 Turquoise Carpet officially opened contest week in Vienna on Sunday evening. All 35 delegations walked from the Burgtheater towards Vienna City Hall, where fans, press and Eurovision guests welcomed this year’s participants. The event also marked the opening of the Eurovision Village at Rathausplatz. Artists arrive at the Eurovision 2026 Turquoise Carpet Last year’s winner JJ was among the first familiar faces on the carpet. Speaking during the event, he called the moment special: “Being allowed to walk over the carpet first is really a privilege.” Later in the evening, JJ was also set to perform his winning song “Wasted Love” with the ORF Radio Symphony Orchestra Vienna. The opening ceremony combined glamour with live music. The ORF Radio Symphony Orchestra Vienna gave the event a ceremonial feel, while the Woodstock Allstar Band welcomed each delegation with music connected to their country. According to the official Eurovision website, the Turquoise Carpet was designed as a celebration of music, culture and togetherness in the heart of Vienna. Australia’s Delta Goodrem made an elegant appearance in a golden gown. She described Eurovision as an institution and said it was special to take part in the contest’s anniversary year. “It is an honour to be here,” she said, adding: “It is an incredible experience, I am very proud to be allowed to be here.” Belgium’s Essyla was also clearly moved by the atmosphere. “So many people, everyone is smiling and happy. That is incredible,” she said. The Belgian artist, whose real name is Alice, also used the moment to send greetings to her mother. Fashion, fans and first Eurovision emotions Fashion played a major role on the carpet. Malta’s Aidan appeared in a floral rose look combined with white cowboy styling. Sweden’s Felicia stood out with a lace mask and sculptural skirt. San Marino’s Senhit arrived with Boy George, bringing another major name to the ceremony. And also the Greek Akylas has a special style. For Switzerland’s Veronica Fusaro, the event made Eurovision feel truly alive. After days of rehearsals without the full fan atmosphere, she summed up the evening simply: “Today it is so real.” Host-country representative Cosmó closed the parade for Austria. He described representing Austria as a great honour and drew extra energy from the crowd at Rathausplatz. With the artists now officially welcomed inside Vienna City Hall, Eurovision week in Vienna has begun in style. All pictures: 📷 Kal Engels, Eurovision Universe