Moldova's Low Eurovision Vote for Romania Sparks Outcry from Influencer Irisha

The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 final was held on May 16 in Vienna, where Bulgaria's DARA took first place and Romania finished third. After the jury votes were released, Moldova awarded only three points to Romania, a result that ignited immediate backlash. Romanian influencer Irisha took to Instagram to condemn the Moldovan jury, questioning the competence of its members, including an 18‑year‑old who had just completed a sports high school. She argued that such a low score was a national embarrassment for Romania and claimed that higher points from Moldova (and Ukraine) could have moved Romania to second or even first place.

Irisha called for a more qualified jury, citing her own musical education and experience, and demanded transparency in the selection process. Her comments added to a broader discussion about the fairness of Eurovision voting procedures.