The strange reason Cyprus is changing its Eurovision 2026 video
- Dale Roberts
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
A backlash over local laws will see Cyprus update their Eurovision 2026 music video for Jalla by Antigoni.
Cyprus’ road to the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 has taken an unexpected turn.
The country’s entry Jalla by Antigoni, will have its official music video edited, not because of the song itself, but due to complaints about road safety principles.
Yes, really.
What sparked the backlash?
Shortly after the video’s release, a group of Cypriot artists, academics and cultural figures published an open letter criticising the production.
They described the participation as “insulting to Cypriot history, traditions and aesthetic.”
They also argued the clip appeared to legitimise “very dangerous practices of road traffic violations,” referring specifically to footage of young riders doing wheelies without protective gear.
Some signatories even called for the song and video to be withdrawn entirely.
Broadcaster response
Cyprus’ national broadcaster CyBC confirmed that changes would be made to the video.
Scenes depicting what were described as road traffic violations, including the helmet-less wheelies, will be removed before the revised version is re-uploaded via official Eurovision channels.
No date has been set for the change.
However, CyBC leadership has defended the entry overall.
Director-General Thanasis Tsokos said the participation and clip have been “warmly and positively received online.”
He added that “the vast majority of comments highlight the contrast between traditional and modern Cyprus, as well as the timbre and style of music with ethnic elements from Cyprus and the Mediterranean.”
Tsokos also described the entry as “a celebration that unites through music.”
Antigoni responds
Antigoni addressed the criticism directly, saying:
“I love Cyprus and I showed a video that reflects the Cyprus I love. That’s what I will say. Let them talk.”
The song itself remains unchanged.
Not the first time for Cyprus
It’s also not the first time Cyprus has faced domestic backlash over a Eurovision entry.
In 2021, El Diablo by Elena Tsagrinou sparked controversy in Cyprus due to its lyrical references to being in love with “the devil” with some religious groups accusing the song of promoting devil worship.
At the time, the broadcaster defended the entry and it ultimately competed at the Eurovision Song Contest 2021 without being withdrawn.
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