Portugal has long held a distinctive place in the Eurovision Song Contest—an identity shaped by authenticity, musical heritage, and the quiet confidence that culminated in its landmark victory in 2017. That win didn’t just mark a high point; it reaffirmed the country’s commitment to songs that feel rooted rather than manufactured, intimate rather than bombastic. Over the years, Portugal has stood apart amid a competition often defined by spectacle, offering moments of sincerity that linger well beyond the final scoreboard.

Now, stepping into that legacy, Bandidos de Cante arrive as Portugal’s latest representatives—bringing with them a sound that draws deeply from the traditions of Cante Alentejano while reimagining it for a vast modern stage. Their entry feels both grounded and daring: a reminder that Eurovision remains a space where cultural specificity can resonate universally.

In a contest that has showcased everything from operatic drama to avant-garde pop—and launched unforgettable performances from artists across the musical spectrum—Portugal’s approach continues to carve its own path. With Bandidos de Cante, that journey takes another intriguing turn, blending heritage with ambition as they prepare to introduce their voice to millions.



Hi, first and foremost, how are you?

Hi, we’re fine!! We’re really happy!

What an exciting 2026 so far... You must be thrilled with how it's playing out. What's been the highlight?

It's been a fantastic year for the group. The highlight was winning the Song Festival and getting to represent Portugal at Eurovision.

We absolutely love A Rosa. Tell us a little about the process behind the scenes in creating the song?

A Rosa came about very naturally, amongst friends, just as we’re used to doing in our project.

Did you always intend the song for Eurovision?

We’ve always wanted to take part in the Song Festival in Portugal; we never thought it would be possible to represent Portugal at Eurovision. It ended up happening, and we’re very happy.

Have you always been a big fan of Eurovision?

We haven’t been following it for very long, but Salvador Sobral’s victory sparked more interest in us and the whole country.

Who is your favourite Eurovision entry of all time?

Salvador Sobral - Amar pelos dois

Portugal has had a very strong history at Eurovision. Do you have a favourite Portuguese performance?

 There have been many Portuguese performances that have marked our country’s presence at the Eurovision Song Contest. The ones we liked best were Salvador Sobral’s and Maro’s.

If you had to file it between two other songs, what would they be and why...? 

We’ve placed our song alongside the two we mentioned earlier. We have a string and piano arrangement that resembles Salvador’s song, and we also have a vocal arrangement that is typical of our songs, just as Maro did too.

Who do you feel is your stiffest competition?

Everyone here has something to say, a story to sing. It’s going to be fantastic to be part of such a huge festival.

What can we expect from your Vienna performance?

Our performance will bring culture, peace, unity and truth.

What is your Eurovision ambition?

We’d love to reach the Final.

If you could record with one other Eurovision artist, who would you work with?

Antigoni

And lastly, aside from Eurovision, what other 2026 plans do you have?

In 2026 we will release the second part of our album Bairro das Flores, featuring some of our country’s most renowned artists. We will also announce a very special concert for our group, in one of the largest venues in our country.