Charlie McGettigan performing in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1994
Irish Eurovision 1994 winner to return trophy in protest of 'Israel’s' participation
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- Charlie McGettigan plans to return his 1994 Eurovision trophy in protest.
- His action supports Swiss singer Nemo, who returned last year’s trophy.
- The move is tied to 'Israel’s' continued participation in Eurovision.
Charlie McGettigan, who won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1994 alongside Paul Harrington, announced he will return his trophy in protest against 'Israel’s' continued participation in the competition.
The decision aligns him with Swiss singer Nemo, last year’s champion, who made a similar symbolic move.
In a social media video, McGettigan said he intends to send his trophy to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes Eurovision. He explained that Nemo had contacted him online to share their decision.
“They came across as sincere and a very intelligent person and stated their case very well, and therefore in support of Nemo, I would like to return my trophy to the EBU as well,” Harrington said. He added that although he cannot locate the trophy from their 1994 win, he will return it if it is found.
The announcement comes amid growing controversy over 'Israel’s' inclusion in Eurovision. Following confirmation last week that 'Israel' will participate, broadcasters in Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain have announced plans to withdraw from the 2026 contest.
