Spain reveals the 18 Benidorm Fest 2026 semi-finalists

Ea-ea-ea-eaah! The excitement in Spain has boiled over after RTVE unveiled the 18 artists who will participate in Benidorm Fest 2026. That’s up from the 16 we’ve seen since the contest relaunched in 2022. The festival, now a cornerstone of Spain’s pop culture calendar, will once again decide who carries the country’s flag to Eurovision. Whether that opportunity will materialize remains unclear: Spain has already stated that it will withdraw from the contest should Israel be allowed to participate. The ongoing hostage-prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas has paved the way for a ceasefire — so we’re all watching this space.

Back in September, RTVE confirmed that Benidorm Fest would return in 2026 regardless of Spain’s participation in Vienna. At the time, the broadcaster emphasized that the show has developed its own identity and consolidated its place in the national music scene — ensuring its continuity beyond Eurovision itself this year.

This year, Benidorm Fest received 870 song submissions between June 5 and September 24 — 32 fewer than in 2025, with 350 of them arriving within the final 24 hours before the deadline. For the 2026 edition, a renewed selection committee composed of music and radio professionals reviewed all entries and chose the final lineup through a quorum-based process rather than a traditional point system, reaching decisions collectively. The full list of participants was unveiled earlier today during a special press event broadcast live from Madrid.

What’s more, the competing songs will be released on December 18. As we wait to discover what Spain has in store for Benidorm Fest 2026, here’s a closer look at the artists ready to bring their unique sounds and styles to the Benidorm stage:

Benidorm Fest 2026: The participants

• Asha
• Atyat
• Dani J
• Dora & Marlon Collins
• Funambulista
• Greg Taro
• Izan Llunas
• Kenneth
• KITAI
• KU Minerva
• Luna Ki
• María León (ft. Julia Medina)
• MAYO
• Mikel Herzog Jr.
• Miranda! & bailamamá
• Rosalinda Galán
• The Quinquis
• Tony Grox & LUCYCALYS

Meet the artists of Benidorm Fest 2026:

Below is a brief introduction to the artists competing in Benidorm Fest 2026. The attached videos offer a glimpse of what each performer might bring to the stage, ahead of the official song releases on December 18.

Asha

Known for fusing urban pop, Mediterranean roots, and a multilingual identity, Asha — a Moroccan born singer and songwriter — has been behind hits for Lola Indigo (“Yo ya no quiero ná”) and Becky G & C. Tangana (“Booty”), and Danna Paola (“Oye Pablo”). Across her career, she’s built a sound that bridges cultures and emotions with ease. 

Her song “SOLA” is a prove of this fusion — a bilingual track in Moroccan Arabic and Spanish — in which Asha explores her dual heritage and artistic evolution, as she heads to Benidorm Fest 2026. Her contact with Eurovision is no new. Asha co-wrote Soleá’s “Palante” which gave Spain a 3rd spot in the Junior Eurovision 2020. She now returns to the Eurovision scene ready to make her mark — this time as the star herself. Here’s a taste of Asha:

Atyat

Madrid-born singer, dancer and actress with Egyptian and Andalusian roots, Atyat finally takes her place on the Benidorm Fest 2026 stage after narrowly missing out last year. Blending Arab influences with pop and bachata, her music radiates energy and emotion — as heard in songs like “Maktub” and “Habibi.”

Trained in singing and acting at The Artist Factory, Atyat has performed in major shows, including MADO Madrid Pride, and has even paid tribute to her idol Shakira with a bachata version of “Antalogía.” Over these last years, Atyat developed her facet as songwriter, teaming up with Dellacruz (Benidorm Fest 2023) to try Benidorm Fest 2025 (which did not make it the cut). Her moment has finally arrived and will now step into the spotlight with her powerhouse voice and magnetic stage presence. Here’s more of Atyat:  

Dani J

Dani J, hailed as Europe’s leading bachata artist, surely will bring his signature fusion of Latin rhythm, flamenco, pop and R&B to the Benidorm Fest 2026 stage. The Seville-born performer has redefined modern bachata since 2014, performing over 380 concerts across 30 countries and earning global recognition for his innovative sound and magnetic performances. 

Singer, dancer, producer, and songwriter, Dani J embodies the spirit of an all-round artist. He has taken his music worldwide — even reaching Japan with “TOKYO”, a bachata track infused with Japanese influences. Now fully independent under his own label, he continues to fuse authenticity and creativity in hits like “7 Pecados”, “Rosas”, and “Entre la Espada y la Pared.” This February, he’ll aim to captivate Benidorm with a new song that promises to take his artistry even further. For now, here’s a glimpse of who he is:

Dora & Marlon Collins

Both Dora & Marlon Collins bring a fresh artistic pairing to Benidorm Fest 2026 — a meeting point between soulful pop, cinematic flair, and bold experimentation. Dora Postigo, daughter of Bimba Bosé and Diego Postigo, inherits a strong creative legacy that shines through her blend of pop, soul, and electronic sounds. Marlon Collins, a Cuban actor and musician, adds emotional depth and dramatic energy, creating a duo that balances intimacy and innovation in equal measure. 

Dora began composing and performing at an early age, earning millions of streams with singles like “Saving Star” and “Ojos de serpiente”, and later starring in Paco León’s film Rainbow. Marlon, trained in Havana and Madrid, has appeared in the Cuban series ’10 Latidos por segundo’ and a Carlos Rivera music video, while exploring his own musical side with songs like “PERRA NUEVA” and “BAHÍA GUARANÁ.” Together, they represent a new generation of artists unafraid to take risks — fusing music, performance, and emotion into something entirely their own. Here’s a taste of Dora & Marlon: 

Funambulista

Funambulista, the musical project led by Diego Cantero, joins the lineup of Benidorm Fest 2026, bringing one of Spain’s most respected songwriting voices to the stage. Known for heartfelt pop anthems like “Me gusta la vida”, “Éramos Reyes” and “Quiero que vuelvas”, Funambulista has built a career defined by honesty, melody and emotional storytelling. His music has become part of the soundtrack of a generation — blending timeless pop warmth with a contemporary edge. His contact with Eurovision occurred in 2018, as he helped compose “Lejos de tu piel” (OT 2017 Eurovision Gala) for Miriam Rodriguez.

Behind the name stands Diego Cantero, an acclaimed composer and performer who has written for artists such as Raphael, Malú, Pastora Soler and Edurne, and penned soundtracks for films like ‘Perdona si te llamo amor.’ With over 300 million streams, multiple gold and platinum records, and collaborations with acts like La Pegatina and Siloé, Funambulista arrives at Benidorm Fest as an artist at the height of his craft — ready to turn feeling into song once again. Here a glimpse of Funambulista:

Greg Taro

Greg Taro, a Spanish-German artist with a truly global soul, joins the Benidorm Fest 2026 lineup after building one of the most intriguing careers in Europe’s new pop scene. Raised between Tokyo, Berlin, and Madrid, he blends sleek electronic textures, pop melodies, and refined international production — a sound shaped by his life across continents. With experience working alongside major international artists, Greg arrives in Benidorm ready to connect with audiences and aim for the bronze microphone. What’s more, Greg feature on Gabry Ponte’s (ESC San Marino 2025) song “Exotica” released a few months prior Eurovision 2025. 

After spending his childhood in Japan, Greg founded the band Urban Lights with his brother, well-known singer Álvaro Soler. When the group disbanded in 2015 — followed by a serious accident two years later — Greg moved to Berlin, where he began writing and producing music for others while pursuing his solo dream. Now, that dream takes center stage at Benidorm Fest, where he’s set to showcase the next chapter of his artistic journey.

Izan Llunas

We’ve seen him shine on TV, his music has millions of streams, and now Izan Llunas is taking on the Benidorm Fest. Coming from a legendary family — his grandfather Dyango won Benidorm’s Song Festival in 1976, and his father Marcos Llunas shone at Eurovision 1997 for Spain (placing 10th) — Izan is ready to make his own mark 50 years later.

At just 21, he’s already starred as young Luis Miguel, earning a Gold Record at 14, and has built a name in the urban music scene collaborating with artists like Twin Melody (Benidorm Fest 2023) and Vgomez. With his natural charisma, fresh voice, and stage experience, Izan is set to prove why he’s one of Spanish pop’s brightest young stars at Benidorm Fest 2026.

Kenneth

Kenneth knows what it’s like to be on stage and connect with an audience. As a member of one of Spain’s top orchestras, he now takes on a new challenge as one of the 18 participants in the fifth edition of Benidorm Fest.

This 23-year-old Venezuelan-born singer and songwriter started his journey on a kids’ talent show with David Bisbal and has since crafted a unique sound blending Afrobeat, R&B, dancehall, urban, and electronic vibes. Hits like “Sigo Pensando en Ti” and “La Isla” have already amassed over a million streams each, and with just seven singles, Kenneth has surpassed 5 million Spotify plays, proving he’s one of Europe’s most promising new Latin voices. Here’s a preview:

KITAI

Rock is roaring back to Benidorm Fest with KITAI, one of the boldest and most electrifying Spanish rock bands. Formed in Madrid over a decade ago, the band — Kenya Saiz (vocals), Deivhook (drums), Fabio (bass), and Edu (guitar) — is ready to unleash their signature energy at the Palau d’Esports l’Illa de Benidorm on February 10, 12, and 14, 2026. Known for extreme live shows and even a Guinness World Record for playing 24 hours straight, KITAI delivers a high-voltage experience where punk intensity meets raw electric power and a fiery connection with the audience.

Since their debut in 2012 with “Que vienen,” KITAI has released four albums and over three EPs, performing at major Spanish festivals like Sonorama Ribera and Dcode. They’ve collaborated with top artists including Second, Varry Brava, Shinova, Miss Caffeina, and Rafa Gutiérrez from Hombres G. Their 2020 album Mixtape featured hits with Rayden and Taburete, and after a two-year break, KITAI made headlines with the first rock concert in a hot-air balloon and launched their eco-friendly tour in 2022 alongside their album ‘No somos tu p** banda de pop*.’

KU Minerva

KU Minerva is the voice behind one of Spanish dance-pop’s most unforgettable hits, “Estoy llorando por ti,” a song that has dominated clubs and parties for over 30 years. Now, the iconic singer returns to the spotlight as one of the 18 contenders in the fifth edition of Benidorm Fest.

Born Minerva Pérez, she skyrocketed to fame in 1995 with “Llorando por ti,” hitting number 3 on Billboard’s Hot Latin Tracks and gaining fans across Spain, Latin America, the U.S., and Germany. Over a career spanning decades, she has released four albums, written for Mexican artists like Sentidos Opuestos, Litzy, and Irán Castillo, and shared festival stages with stars like Ricky Martin and Christina Aguilera. With her signature mix of authenticity, innovation, and passion, KU Minerva proves why she remains a queen of Spanish dance-pop.

Luna Ki

Yes! Luna Ki is back — and ready to take Benidorm Fest by storm! Four years after their dramatic exit from the first edition, the Catalan artist returns to the stage to settle unfinished business. In 2022, they had to withdraw because they couldn’t perform their song “Voy a morir” with autotune, a key element of their artistic vision. Known for their emotional intensity and advocacy on mental health and LGBTQIA+ issues, Luna Ki’s music blends bold creativity with a powerful message.

Born Luna Zocolski in Barcelona in 1999, this multidisciplinary artist draws from Cuban, Argentine, Spanish, and Russian roots, combining training in music, theater, ballet, circus, and writing. Influenced by icons like Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, Lenny Kravitz, and Shakira, they have crafted a unique experimental pop style with a futuristic aesthetic. At 26, Luna Ki continues to push artistic boundaries, exploring new sonic and visual worlds, and their return to Benidorm Fest promises an unforgettable, avant-garde performance.

María León (ft. Julia Medina)

María León and Julia Medina are joining forces to deliver a performance full of emotion and spectacle at Benidorm Fest 2026. The duo promises a charismatic and authentic collaboration, where music becomes the perfect meeting point between storytelling and raw feeling.

María León, a Mexican singer, dancer, actress, and composer, began her career as the lead vocalist for T’ de Tila and Playa Limbo. She made her acting debut in 2016 with the series ‘Guerra de Ídolos,’ building a strong presence in musical theater and television. A true prodigy, she started piano at five and composed her first song, Mamá, at six, winning a school festival award. Later, she switched to classical guitar, competed in Popstars in 2002, and even served as a coach on La Voz Kids México, working alongside Maluma, solidifying her reputation as one of Mexico’s most versatile performers.

Julia Medina, meanwhile, rose to fame on Operación Triunfo 2018 and has since built a successful music career in Spain, known for her expressive voice and powerful stage presence.

MAYO

Álvaro Mayo, known as MAYO, rose to fame on Operación Triunfo 2023, quickly becoming one of the most charismatic voices of his generation. At 23, the Sevillian artist delivers songs full of emotion, sincerity, and melodies that instantly connect with listeners, blending personal stories with universal themes.

Following his debut EP SEASON I, MAYO expands his sound with his first studio album MAYO SEASON, featuring seven new tracks and collaborations with Mar Lucas and Italian superstar Elettra Lamborghini. With addictive lyrics, energetic, intimate electronic pop, and a style he defines as “pop queer,” MAYO continues to establish himself as one of Spain’s most exciting contemporary voices.

Mikel Herzog Jr.

Mikel Herzog Jr. comes from a family steeped in musical tradition — his father, Mikel Herzog, was part of bands like Cadillac and La Década Prodigiosa and made waves with the 1991 hit “El Tractor Amarillo,” while his mother, Mavi, sang as a backing vocalist for Isabel Pantoja. Growing up surrounded by music, Mikel and his brother Iván learned to sing before they could talk, shaping him into a natural performer. What’s more – and as Izan Llunas – Mikel’s father also participated in Eurovision (in 1998) with his song “¿Que voy a hacer sin tí?” placing Spain 16th. So we have the offspring of two Eurovision consecutive alums competing in Benidorm Fest.

A versatile singer, actor, and dancer, Mikel has made his mark in musical theater with ‘Asesinato para dos’ and on television through shows like ‘Tu Cara Me Suena,’ where he transformed into artists such as Benson Boone, Abraham Mateo, and Damiano from Måneskin. With charisma, technical skill, and a rich artistic lineage, Mikel Herzog Jr. continues to prove himself as a rising star in Spain’s music scene. His participation in Benidorm Fest 2026 will be his first solo debut. As we wait for that, here’s a rendition of Damiano:

Miranda! & bailamamá

Miranda! and bailamamá join forces for a collaboration that brings them straight to Benidorm Fest 2026. Óscar Ferrer, known from Varry Brava, returns to the festival as bailamamá after first appearing with “Raffaella” in 2022. This time, he partners with the internationally acclaimed Argentine duo Miranda!, whose hits like “Don and Perfecta” have earned them millions of fans worldwide. The pair previously collaborated in 2021 on “Horteras (empapadicos),” and now their goal is clear: to claim the mic and leave their mark at Benidorm Fest.

Miranda!, active since 2001, has become a pop icon across Latin America and Spain, releasing ten studio albums and hits such as “Tu misterioso alguien,” “Mentía,” and “Yo te diré. They’ve collaborated with artists from Lali to Andrés Calamaro, earning nine Gardel awards, two Gaviotas de Plata, and three Latin Grammy nominations. Meanwhile, bailamamá is Óscar Ferrer’s fresh, experimental project after Varry Brava’s decade-and-a-half-long journey, blending pop, electronic sounds, and emotional storytelling to bring a new perspective to the stage.

Rosalinda Galán

Rosalinda Galán arrives at Benidorm Fest 2026 as the electrifying voice of contemporary copla, blending tradition with modern experimentation. The Sevillian singer and actress transforms every performance into an emotional journey, combining Spanish folklore with a fresh, feminist perspective. Her music merges the roots of copla with electronic sounds, creating a bold, modern take on a classic genre.

Her EP revisits classics like “Farsa Monea” and “Ojos verdes,” while La Suri pays tribute to legendary copleras. With experience in film, theater, and stage shows like ‘Quiero ser María Jiménez,’ Rosalinda brings passion, poetic sensitivity, and stage power to every performance, reinventing copla without losing its soul.

The Quinquis

The Quinquis bring a bold, genre-bending sound to Benidorm Fest 2026, blending the vintage “quinqui” style of the 1970s with modern electronics, funk, and 21st-century beats. The group is made up of Marcos Miranda, Maxi, and Reys — the solo project of Sergio Sastre, co-founder of Miss Caffeina and a familiar face at the festival. Together, they fuse urban and contemporary flamenco influences, creating a fresh, electrifying take on classic Spanish music.

Their debut single, “Te Estoy Amando Locamente (T.E.A.L),” reimagines the classic Las Grecas anthem with modern production and electronic touches, while Maxi’s vocals complete the trio. With Reys’ festival experience from Miss Caffeina in 2024, The Quinquis are ready to make a striking mark at the Benidorm stage.

Tony Grox & LUCYCALYS

Tony Grox and LUCYCALYS join forces for Benidorm Fest 2026, blending flamenco roots with modern electronic and pop influences.

Producer, composer, and DJ Tony Grox has worked internationally in Miami, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, fusing traditional flamenco with cutting-edge electronic sounds. His collaborations include Kiki Morente, Lachispa (Benidorm Fest 2025), Salma, and José Rey, and his cinematic approach to music shines through in every project.

LUCYCALYS brings the sensitivity and power of modern flamenco-pop, with hits like “ÁPEIRON,” “GALA,” and “piel de bronze” marking the start of her artistic journey. A trained musical theater performer, she reached the finals of the 2024 European Tour Music Fest. Together, Tony Grox and LUCYCALYS merge tradition and modernity into a unique, versatile performance, making them one of the most exciting duos at Benidorm Fest 2026.