Eurovision 2026: SIMÓN will represent Armenia with Paloma Rumba

SIMÓN representing Armenia at Eurovision 2026

The final Eurovision artist for 2026 has now been confirmed, with Armenian broadcaster AMPTV, overnight Australian time, announcing that SIMÓN will be their representative at Eurovision 2026 with the song Paloma Rumba.

Paloma Rumba

Armenia's song for Vienna 2026, Paloma Rumba, is a rebellious anthem about breaking free from the monotony of a suffocating routine and finally choosing yourself and your dreams over your comfort zone.

The title literally translates to "Dove’s Rumba", or "Dove’s Dance", symbolising a joyful dance of freedom, like a dove finally taking flight after being caged for too long.

Through humour in its lyrics, attitude in SIMÓN's delivery and the explosive energy of the production, the song follows a character who walks away from an unrewarding "9 to 5" life, choosing to follow their passion instead.

At its core, Paloma Rumba celebrates the moment you say goodbye to what is holding you back and start living to the rhythm of your heart.

Paloma Rumba was composed by Lilit Navasardyan (LI'LITH), with lyrics by David Tserunyan, Eva Voskanyan and the singer-songwriter who represented Armenia at Turin 2022, Rosa Linn.

About the artist

Born Simón Hovhannisyan in Hrazdan, a city north of Yerevan, Simon is an upcoming singer, dancer and performer on the Armenian pop scene.

A familiar name to Eurovision fans, Simon finished runner-up to PARG in the Armenian national selection Depi Evratesil in 2025, with the song Ay Paparey Bye.

Simon went on to be one of the five Armenian jury members for Eurovision 2025.

Armenia at Eurovision

Despite being a relatively newer participant compared to many European nations (having made their debut in 2006), Armenia has consistently punched above its weight, collecting multiple top 10 finishes and becoming a reliable qualifier in its early years.

Armenia’s best result at Eurovision is fourth place, achieved in both 2008 by Sirusho with Qélé, Qélé, and in 2014 by Aram Mp3 with Not Alone. The country has only failed to qualify for the grand final on three occasions.

Most recently, PARG finished in 20^th position at Eurovision 2025 with his song Survivor.

SIMÓN will perform Paloma Rumba in the first half of the second Semi-final on Thursday 14 May 2026.

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