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In a major change for Germany’s Eurovision strategy, it has been announced that the responsibility for organising the country’s participation will shift to a new broadcaster starting in 2026.

Since 1996, Germany’s Eurovision efforts have been overseen by Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR). However, beginning next year, Südwestrundfunk (SWR) will take the reins. This marks the third time SWR has been in charge of Germany’s Eurovision entry — and the first time since 1978.

The transition is possible because both NDR and SWR are part of ARD, Germany’s national network of regional broadcasters. While ARD oversees the network as a whole, individual programming responsibilities are shared among its members.

In a press release, ARD explained that this handover reflects a broader initiative for its regional stations to “specialise” their programming, with increased collaboration between them. SWR will officially assume full responsibility after Eurovision 2025 in Basel but will already be involved in the upcoming contest to ensure a smooth transition.

ARD’s Programme Director Christine Strobl expressed her appreciation, stating she was thankful to SWR “for being willing to take on this important task.”