Bulgarian banger 'Bangaranga' bags country its 1st Eurovision win
Bulgaria achieved its first-ever win at the Eurovision Song Contest with the song 'Bangaranga' performed by Dara. The catchy anthem triumphed over 24 other nations, surprising many who did not expect Bulgaria to win. The event also highlighted ongoing political tensions, particularly regarding Israel's participation amid protests related to the war in Gaza.
- ▪Bulgaria won its first Eurovision title with the song 'Bangaranga' by Dara.
- ▪The contest took place in Vienna, Austria, where Bulgaria's entry outperformed 24 other countries.
- ▪The event was marked by protests related to Israel's participation amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
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Europe Bulgarian banger 'Bangaranga' bags country its 1st Eurovision win May 16, 20268:48 PM ET Chloe Veltman Dara and her song "Bangaranga" skyrocketed Bulgaria to first place at the 70th Eurovision Song Contest HELMUT FOHRINGER/APA/AFP via Getty Images/AFP hide caption toggle caption HELMUT FOHRINGER/APA/AFP via Getty Images/AFP Bulgaria has won the 70th Eurovision Song Contest — the country's first-ever win. The achievement surprised many because Bulgaria wasn't among the favorites to win in 2026. But with its catchy "Welcome to the riot!" refrain and bouncy vibe, performer Dara's banging anthem "Bangaranga" bested 24 other nations for the glittery global musical crown at the finals on Saturday in Vienna, Austria. Israel came in second, as it did last year.
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