Ukraine has chosen its representative for Eurovision 2026. It is LELÉKA — an artist who unites Berlin jazz with the Ukrainian soul. We trace the singer’s journey from Pershotravensk to victory in the National Selection.
On 7 February 2026, Ukrainian artist LELÉKA achieved a confident and symbolic victory in the National Selection, earning the right to represent Ukraine at Eurovision 2026, which will take place in Vienna, Austria. Her performance with the song “Ridnym” received the maximum possible support — 10 points from the jury and 10 points from the audience — making the result unanimous and unequivocal.
LELÉKA’s victory became one of the most emotionally charged moments of the Ukrainian selection in recent years and sparked a wide response both within the professional music community and among viewers.
The song “Ridnym”: a return to one’s roots
The composition “Ridnym” was perceived not merely as a competitive entry, but as a deeply personal statement reflecting themes of memory, belonging, and an inner connection to home. Restrained in form and free from external spectacle, the song relies on voice, lyrics, and the silence between the lines — a quality that became its key artistic strength.
For many listeners, “Ridnym” has come to symbolise a return to one’s roots and native language, making LELÉKA’s performance especially resonant with the current mood of Ukrainian society.
Who is LELÉKA: a brief biography
LELÉKA is the stage name of Ukrainian singer and composer Viktoriia Korneikova. She was born on 10 November 1990 in the city of Pershotravensk, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. She received her acting education in Kyiv, followed by musical training in Germany. Since 2016, the artist has been living and working in Berlin.
LELÉKA is the founder of the eponymous folk-jazz quartet, bringing together musicians from Ukraine, Germany, and Poland. The project is known for its subtle fusion of Ukrainian folklore, jazz improvisation, and an intimate contemporary sound. The group’s discography includes several studio albums, among them “Kolysanky” (2025).
Alongside her main project, Viktoriia also develops an alternative electronic art project, DONBA₴GRL, in which she explores themes of identity, inner vulnerability, and contemporary experience.
Eurovision: the contest in context
Eurovision is the largest international song competition, held since 1956 and bringing together dozens of countries from Europe and beyond. In 2026, the contest will celebrate its 70th anniversary, giving the upcoming event special significance.
Ukraine is traditionally regarded as one of the contest’s strongest participating countries, known for bold musical choices, a clear national identity, and a high level of artistry. LELÉKA’s victory in the national selection continues this tradition — with an emphasis not on show effects, but on meaning, voice, and cultural depth.
What to expect from Ukraine’s performance in Vienna
LELÉKA’s appearance on the Eurovision 2026 stage promises to be a non-standard yet memorable moment of the contest. Her approach contrasts loudness and visual pressure with inner silence, sincerity, and emotional precision.
The song “Ridnym” and the artist herself are already perceived as a representation of Ukraine through feeling rather than imagery — an approach that may play a decisive role in how the performance is received by an international audience.
