The Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (RIK) rejected criticism of the country’s Eurovision 2026 entry, asserting that the contest is a music festival designed to unite people, not a cultural institution comparable to museums or state events.
RIK general director Thanasis Tsokos highlighted the positive online reception of the song “Jalla” and its accompanying videoclip, emphasising that it showcases the contrast between traditional and modern Cyprus through ethnic and Mediterranean elements. He also confirmed that any scenes conflicting with road safety rules have been removed, and assured that Cyprus will participate with professionalism and a modern stage presentation.
Positive online reaction
Tsokos noted that the song and videoclip have received widespread approval on platforms like YouTube. The majority of comments praised the way the video presents Cyprus’s traditions alongside contemporary cultural elements, while maintaining a fun, engaging style.
He stressed that the Eurovision Song Contest, which marks its 70th edition this year, is separate from Cyprus’s presidential activities supported by public broadcasting. “The contest brings people together through music, and countries often submit entertaining songs for millions of viewers worldwide,” he said.
“Jalla” celebrates Cyprus
The song “Jalla” by Antigoni, produced by international hitmaker Claydee, incorporates ethnic, Greek-Cypriot sounds and dialect words for the first time in Cyprus’s Eurovision participation. The singer explained that the word “Jalla,” suggested by her friend Dimitris Nikolaou, means “more” and reflects her desire to share Cyprus with the global audience.
The videoclip highlights Cyprus’s landscapes, traditions, and modern society, directed by a prominent filmmaker to combine authenticity with a contemporary vision. Antigoni will make her first live performance of “Jalla” in the second semi-final on Friday, 13 February.
Experienced artistic team
Sacha Jean Baptiste, renowned for her work on Cyprus’s 2018 hit “Fuego,” will lead the artistic direction. She has previously choreographed successful Eurovision performances for Armenia, Bulgaria, Sweden, Malta, and Switzerland.
Antigoni aims to wear a fashion-forward outfit with a modern style and a subtle Cypriot touch, described as “village vogue” by the singer.
Eurofan support and betting trends
Since the videoclip release, “Jalla” has topped fan preferences on the Eurovision Scoreboard app, ranking first among the seven official songs of the 2026 contest. Betting odds initially placed Cyprus lower, but the song rose from to 16th position, showing upward momentum.
While it is too early to predict Cyprus’s final result, experts believe the song’s authentic identity and Antigoni’s charisma will resonate with the Eurovision audience, boosting the country’s chances of qualifying for the final.
Also read: Antigoni: Powerful figures in Cyprus call for the withdrawal of her song
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