Felicia, the winner of Melodifestivalen 2026, met with SVT on Monday after her comments about Israel stirred emotions, according to multiple reports. SVT press chief Camilla Hagert confirmed the meeting to Kulturnyheterna, stating that it is a standard meeting with Melodifestivalen winners before Eurovision and that Felicia's statement about Israel will likely be discussed. According to SVT Kultur, Felicia described having different opinions from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and said that they have had discussions, but she has been clear about her views and will continue to express them. She emphasized that they must find a way forward together with her record company and SVT where everyone's opinions are heard.
SVT has no public policy regarding how artists may express themselves, according to multiple reports. However, Melodifestivalen and Eurovision may not be used as a platform for political statements or to drive opinion. Performances and stage expressions must follow the competition's rules and not contain political messages. SVT has responsibility for how participation is portrayed in their broadcasts and news reporting, but cannot influence statements artists make in contexts other than those linked to Melodifestivalen and Eurovision. This means that while SVT can control what happens on stage, Felicia's comments outside of those events are beyond their direct control.
We have different opinions, me and the EBU.
Meanwhile, Israel is considering reporting Felicia, according to multiple reports. The exact nature of Felicia's comments about Israel that stirred emotions remains unclear, as does the outcome of the meeting. It is unknown whether Felicia will face any consequences from SVT or the EBU, or what specific rules the EBU has regarding political statements. The likelihood of Israel formally reporting Felicia and the process involved are also uncertain.
We have had discussions, but I have been clear that I think what I think and I will say it. Then we have to find ways forward. We do this together, me, the record company and SVT. We must find a way forward where everyone gets their opinions said. That is very important.
It is a meeting between SVT, the record company and Felicia and it is a standard meeting that you always have with Melodifestivalen winners before Eurovision. Likely Felicia's statement about Israel will be discussed.