Dublin: Ireland's Charlie McGettigan, who won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1994, announced his intention to return his trophy in protest against Israel's continued participation in the competition. This decision aligns with Swiss singer Nemo, last year's champion, who has also decided to make the symbolic gesture.

According to Anadolu Agency, McGettigan plans to send his trophy back to the European Broadcasting Union, the organization responsible for Eurovision. McGettigan shared his decision in a video posted on social media, emphasizing his support for Nemo's stance. McGettigan, who secured his victory alongside fellow Irish singer Paul Harrington, expressed his solidarity with Nemo's well-articulated reasoning.

Harrington, while supporting McGettigan's decision, mentioned his inability to locate the trophy from their 1994 win. He stated that he would also return his trophy if he managed to find it, further emphasizing his support for the cause.

The decisions of McGettigan and Nemo come amidst a larger controversy regarding Israel's participation in Eurovision. Following the recent confirmation that Israel would remain part of the competition, broadcasters from five countries, including Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain, announced their withdrawal from the 2026 contest.