As Belgium celebrates its National Day, we’re turning the spotlight on its rich and fascinating Eurovision history — full of highs, lows, and unforgettable moments!
One of the originals
Belgium was there at the very beginning, participating in the very first Eurovision Song Contest back in 1956. Since then, they only missed 3 contests – in 1994, 1997 and 2001– due to relegation rules after finishing too low the previous year. Otherwise, they’ve been a loyal and enthusiastic Eurovision participant!
A Historic Victory in 1986
Belgium’s finest Eurovision moment came in 1986, when a 13-year-old powerhouse named Sandra Kim charmed Europe with her infectious energy and the feel-good anthem “J’aime la vie”. She not only won — she dominated the scoreboard and remains the youngest-ever Eurovision winner (despite the lyrics saying she was 15 — a bit of Eurovision mischief!).
The following year, Belgium proudly hosted the 1987 contest in Brussels, bringing the party home.
Their second best result
Belgium nearly scored a second victory in 2003, when Urban Trad introduced Europe to the ethereal and mysterious “Sanomi”, sung in an imaginary language. It was experimental, beautiful, and very Eurovision. They finished in second place, just 2 points behind Turkey — so close!
Difficult era and brighter years
With the introduction of semi-finals in 2004, Belgium hit a rough patch, failing to qualify for the final five years in a row (2005–2009). But, like any great Eurovision story, the comeback was just around the corner.
From 2010 onwards, Belgium began to rediscover its Eurovision mojo. Since then, they’ve qualified for the final 8 out of 15 times, with five Top 10 places:
- 2010: Tom Dice with his acoustic ballad “Me and My Guitar”, placing 6th.
- 2015: Loïc Nottet with “Rhythm Inside” , placing 4th.
- 2016: Laura Tesoro with the funky “What’s the Pressure”, finishing 10th.
- 2017: Blanche with “City Lights”, finishing 4th .
- 2023: Gustaph with his vogue-inspired anthem “Because of You”, bringing Belgium back into the Top 10 with a 7th place finish!
Unfortunately, Belgium didn’t make it to the final in 2024 or 2025, marking back-to-back non-qualifications — but Eurovision is nothing if not unpredictable. A big comeback could be just around the corner!
Two Broadcasters, One Passion
Fun fact: Belgium is the only country where two broadcasters alternate entries — VRT (Flemish) and RTBF (Francophone). This leads to a wonderful variety in musical styles, languages, and staging concepts — it’s like getting two Belgiums for the price of one!
Here’s to Belgium – a small country with big Eurovision heart!
From French ballads to Flemish pop, from made-up languages to striking stage shows, Belgium has truly brought diversity and creativity to the Eurovision stage. Here’s hoping for more memorable moments (and maybe that long-awaited second win?) in the years to come.
Happy National Day, Belgium — and bonne chance for the next Eurovision!
