ITV commented on the discussions about choosing a representative and song for Eurovision 2026

The Public Television and Radio Broadcasting Company (İTV) has published an official statement regarding Azerbaijan's representative at Eurovision 2026, JIVA, and her performed song Just Go.

It is noted that in recent days, amid various discussions on social media regarding Azerbaijan's representative, the song selection, and the creative team, the need arose to provide the public with more detailed information about the selection process.

"The process of determining Azerbaijan's representative at the international Eurovision Song Contest 2026 was carried out on the basis of a multi-stage and professional selection. This approach is consistent with the model that has been consistently applied by the delegation since 2023.

A total of 100 applications were received at the selection stage, within which 186 songs were submitted. Of the submitted songs, 107 were sent by local authors and performers, and 79 by foreign authors. From the initial stage of the selection process, JIVA's candidacy was considered separately by experts, and her success as the winner of the Səs Azərbaycan project in 2025 was also taken into account during the evaluation. This approach was justified by the fact that she is a performer who has already established herself on the professional stage, possesses strong live vocal abilities, and has stage experience developed over the years.

Other applications were evaluated by a professional panel, and 18 candidates were selected and invited to participate in the next stage. At this stage, live auditions and individual interviews were organized for them. Particular attention was paid to evaluating the candidates' vocal abilities, stage presentation, artistic style of expression, and potential for an international audience. Based on the results of the auditions, two more candidates were identified, and thus the final shortlist consisted of three participants.

The final decision was made based on the results of a specially formed focus group and expert assessment. One of the main criteria taken into account is the reintroduction this year of jury voting at the Eurovision semi-final stage. Against the backdrop of this change, strong live performance and consistent vocal abilities are of particular importance, and therefore this criterion was considered as one of the main priorities during the selection. It was precisely from this standpoint that JIVA's candidacy stood out most prominently, and she was chosen as Azerbaijan's representative for 2026.

In recent days, various claims have also been voiced on social media regarding the song and its author, including opinions that the work was allegedly created using artificial intelligence. These opinions do not reflect reality. Just Go is an original musical work prepared on the basis of a professional creative approach, behind which lie years of experience, professional knowledge, and creative labor," the İTV statement reads.

It should be noted that the 70th international Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Vienna, Austria. The first semi-final will take place on May 12, the second on May 14, and the grand final on May 16, 2026.