Austria debuted at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1957 and has won three times.
Its first victory came in 1966 with Udo Jürgens’ Merci, Chérie, a heartfelt ballad performed in German. After decades of mixed results and occasional withdrawals, Austria’s Eurovision fortunes were revived in 2014 when Conchita Wurst won with Rise Like a Phoenix. The dramatic ballad, paired with Conchita’s striking persona, became a symbol of diversity and acceptance, capturing both jury and televote support.
Most recently, JJ won for Austria in Basel, Switzerland with Wasted Love. A jury hit, that also came fourth in the wider televote.
Austria’s entries often reflect a mix of styles, from traditional ballads to contemporary pop and electronic influences. The national selection process has varied between internal selections and national finals, aiming to balance local appeal with international trends.
Recent performances, such as Who the Hell Is Edgar? by Teya & Salena in 2023, highlight Austria’s willingness to experiment with themes and staging.
Known for its distinctive entries and high production values, Austria has re-established itself as a credible and innovative Eurovision contender.
