Eurovision Changes Rules: Winning Country at War Will No Longer Automatically Host Next Year's Event in Italy

Organizers announced the regulation change today, stating that under the new rules, the winning broadcaster will not automatically be able to host the Contest if an armed conflict, a sensitive geopolitical situation or any other situation materially affects the security, safety or stability of its State or its immediate region, according to an official statement. The decision marks a significant shift in how the competition handles hosting rights, which have historically been awarded to the previous year's winner. The new policy aims to ensure that the event can be held in a safe and stable environment.