Belgium: Essyla to Eurovision 2026 with "Dancing on the Ice"
Belgium has chosen its representative for Eurovision 2026, with Essyla set to take the stage in Vienna. Listen to the song "Dancing on the Ice" here
The artist who will represent Belgium at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna has been revealed: Essyla has been internally selected by Belgian broadcaster RTBF (Radio-télévision belge de la Communauté française).
Essyla's song has also been released: “Dancing on the Ice.”
"Dancing on the Ice" was co-written by Essyla with Nicolas d’Avell, Emil Stengele, and Barbara Petitjean.
Essyla and her song were internally selected by RTBF. The broadcaster opted for an internal selection process rather than a televised national final. Belgium alternates participation between its two public broadcasters. In 2026 it was RTBF’s turn to select the entry.
Reacting to her selection as Belgium’s Eurovision 2026 representative, Essyla shares her first thoughts:
– I don't fully realize. A part of me is still elsewhere, as if I were hiding the fact that I am the one who represents Belgium.
– Of course, there is stress: I want to give everything so that my country is proud and above all not to disappoint it. I can't wait to go to Austria... It's fast approaching!
– It's a completely crazy adventure, a dream that I've been chasing since I was little. And today, I can say it without hesitation: I have never been so happy.
Essyla
Essyla was born Alice Van Eesbeeck and hails from Perwez in Walloon Brabant. She first came to public attention in Belgium when she reached the Final of the ninth season of The Voice Belgique in 2021, where she showcased her vocal talent and artistic identity. From a young age she formed her first band and continued to develop her technique at the music school IMEP in Namur, refining her sound and style.
Essyla grew up listening to French chansons. Over time, she also became inspired by jazz, folk, rock, and funk, especially classic American singers and sounds. These influences shape her own music, which combines pop with soulful and emotional elements. In her songs she often focuses on themes like empowerment and the experiences of young women today, making her music both personal and relatable.
Essyla has released a series of solo works including the singles Let You Go and Not My Kind of Dude, both of which were embraced by radio audiences, followed by her debut EP I’ll Be Okay.
Belgium in the Eurovision Song Contest
Belgium has participated 66 times in Eurovision since the beginning in 1956.
They won the contest in 1986 (Sandra Kim – J'aime La Vie), but have finished in last place eight times (two of them with nul points).
Since the introduction of the Semi-finals in 2004, Belgium has qualified for the Grand Final 9 out of 21 times (in 2010 they even came in first in Semi-final 1).
