Moldovan Eurovision Jury Awards Romania Only 3 Points, Citing Weak Rehearsal

During the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 final, Romania’s entry by Alexandra Căpitănescu finished third, yet the jury from the Republic of Moldova awarded her just three points. The low score triggered widespread criticism online and among Romanian public figures.

Moldovan jury members Victoria Cușnir and Ilona Stepan explained that the jury’s votes are based on the general rehearsal held a day before the live final, not the televised performance. They said Căpitănescu’s rehearsal was substantially weaker, affecting vocal stability and consistency, which are key criteria for professional musicians. Stepan placed the Romanian artist at seventh in her personal ranking, noting that a top‑ten finish is still respectable.

Despite these explanations, the controversy remained unresolved, with many questioning the fairness of a jury system that does not consider the final live show.