Sweden has confirmed its participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2027 in Burgas while announcing a leadership change at its national selection competition, Melodifestivalen.
The Scandinavian country is seeking an eighth crystal microphone trophy after recording a 20th-place finish in Vienna. Swedish public broadcaster SVT confirmed Sweden will compete in Burgas on May 11, 13 and 15, subject to qualifying for the grand final of Europe's largest music event.
Leadership change at Melodifestivalen
The biggest change ahead of the 2027 tournament takes place behind the scenes at Melodifestivalen. Anders Wistbacka is stepping down as general director after five years leading the national competition, with Hans Abrahamsson set to take over the role in January 2027.
Melodifestivalen serves as Sweden's traditional selection process to choose its representative for Eurovision. The popular contest will once again tour various cities across Sweden before holding its grand final showcase.
Viewing figures demonstrate the competition's ongoing popularity. According to SVT data, more than 3.6 million viewers tuned in to watch the final of this year's edition.
Following the appointment of Hans Abrahamsson, SVT can now move forward with organizing the upcoming edition to select Sweden's entrant for Eurovision 2027. Broadcaster SVT has not yet announced the official dates, host cities or participating artists for the next contest.
Loreen tour schedule fuels return rumors
Speculation in Sweden suggests two-time Eurovision winner Loreen could return to the Melodifestivalen stage in 2027. The rumors gained momentum after the singer decided to postpone her upcoming European tour until the spring of 2027.
Loreen was originally scheduled to tour Europe during September and October 2026, along with several summer festival appearances. However, she chose to clear her stage commitments until next year.
In a message to her fans, Loreen explained that the decision was carefully considered. She stated that she wished to deliver all the energy and soul her live shows deserve, adding that she does not like doing things by halves.
Organizers will announce new tour dates soon. Tickets already purchased will remain valid for rescheduled shows, while fans unable to attend can request a full refund.
Although the artist has not confirmed her participation, shifting her major professional commitments to spring 2027 leaves an open schedule during the Melodifestivalen season. The timing comes five years after her historic selection with the song Tattoo.
A record-breaking Eurovision legacy
Loreen has established herself as one of the most successful performers in Eurovision history. Her rise began in 2012 when she represented Sweden in Baku, Azerbaijan, with the song Euphoria.
Her decisive victory in Baku turned the track into an international hit and launched her global career.
A decade later, Loreen returned to Melodifestivalen with the track Tattoo, earning selection for Eurovision 2023 in Liverpool, England. She won the contest again with a memorable performance, making history as the first woman to win Eurovision twice and matching the record of two victories held by Ireland's Johnny Logan.
