Eurovision 1994 winner to return trophy over Israel’s participation

Ireland (MNTV) — Ireland’s Charlie McGettigan, who won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1994, has said he will return his trophy to protest Israel’s continued participation in the competition, joining Swiss singer Nemo, last year’s winner, in a symbolic act of dissent.

McGettigan announced the decision in a video shared on social media, saying he plans to send the trophy back to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes Eurovision. He won the contest alongside fellow Irish singer Paul Harrington with the song Rock ’n’ Roll Kids.

McGettigan said Nemo had contacted him online to explain their decision to return the 2024 trophy.

“They came across as sincere and very intelligent, and they stated their case very well,” McGettigan said. “In support of Nemo, I would like to return my trophy to the EBU as well.”

Paul Harrington also voiced support for the move, saying he no longer has access to the original 1994 trophy.

“Unfortunately, our win was in 1994 and I can’t lay my hands on whatever trophy we received back then,” Harrington said. “But if I do find it, I will return my trophy as well.”

The gesture comes amid growing controversy over Israel’s participation in Eurovision. After confirmation last week that Israel would remain in the contest, broadcasters in five countries — Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain — announced they would withdraw from the 2026 competition.