Delegations have begun arriving in Malta ahead of Junior Eurovision 2026, signalling the start of the final week of preparations for the 24th edition. Sixteen acts are expected at the contest in Ta’ Qali, where rehearsals, official activities and the live final are scheduled.
What to know
- Delegations have begun travelling to the Malta contest.
- France and North Macedonia were among the early arrivals.
According to reporting on 17 October, the delegations from North Macedonia and France reached Malta on Friday. Other national teams were travelling through the weekend. The reports document initial arrivals, not a complete confirmed list of all delegations already on the island.
Ukraine’s delegation departed Kyiv on an overland train journey described as the Eurovision Express. The journey reflects the practical arrangements required for the Ukrainian team to reach Malta and prepare Erika Kolesnichenko’s performance of NOT A LULLABY.
The participating singers will move into the official rehearsal programme before the final on Saturday 24 October. Once rehearsals begin, broadcasters and organisers may publish performance details, photographs and video previews. Travel updates should not be confused with the results of on-stage rehearsals.
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Last verified: 18 October 2026.
