Poland's Eurovision 2026 Winner Revealed! Alicja's "Pray" Takes Victory!

Alicja Szemplińska emerges victorious in thrilling national selection with her song "Pray"

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:40am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of shimmering, high-contrast sequins in a dramatic studio lighting, conceptually representing the energy and excitement of the Eurovision Song Contest.The glitz and glamour of the Eurovision Song Contest takes center stage as Poland celebrates its 2026 winner, Alicja Szemplińska, and her powerful ballad "Pray".Columbus Today

The Polish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 has been a thrilling affair, with over 81,000 votes cast in total. The winner, Alicja Szemplińska, emerged victorious with a commanding lead, securing her place in the contest with her song "Pray". This marks a significant achievement for Poland, as they have been on a steady rise in the contest since their return in 2014.

Why it matters

The high level of engagement and participation is a testament to the enduring popularity of the Eurovision Song Contest in Poland. The variety of songs and artists showcased in the selection process highlights the rich cultural tapestry of the country, reflecting its vibrant music scene and ability to embrace different genres and artistic expressions.

The details

The song "Pray" is a powerful and emotional piece that resonates with many. The lyrics speak to themes of hope and perseverance, which are universal and relatable. This could be a strategic choice for the contest, as it taps into the emotions and experiences of a wide audience. Furthermore, the high number of votes cast online and via SMS demonstrates the widespread interest and engagement in the selection process.

  • The Polish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 took place in April 2026.

The players

Alicja Szemplińska

The winner of the Polish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 with her song "Pray".

Ola Antoniak

The second-place finisher in the Polish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, trailing Alicja Szemplińska by over 11,000 votes.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Alicja Szemplińska will represent Poland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026.

The takeaway

The Polish national selection for Eurovision 2026 highlights the country's rich cultural heritage and its commitment to the contest. The diversity of the artists and songs showcased reflects the vibrant music scene in Poland, and the high level of public engagement demonstrates the enduring popularity of the Eurovision Song Contest in the country.