Poli Genova Speaks Out: “I Wanted to Return to Eurovision — But the Rules Said No”

If you were quietly hoping that Poli Genova might sneak back into Bulgaria’s Eurovision line‑up this year, you’re not alone — but unfortunately the pop star has confirmed that her comeback bid was stopped not by lack of talent, but by a rulebook.

Poli, one of Bulgaria’s most beloved Eurovision alumni (remember Stockholm 2016 and that fantastic fourth‑place finish?), sat down for an open chat on the show 120 Minutes and explained exactly what went wrong.

A Comeback Blocked — Not by Critics, but by Criteria

Here’s the twist. Poli didn’t lose a public vote. She wasn’t out‑sung in a heat. What tripped her up was a technicality: the selection rules this year favour artists based on current radio airplay. Only the top 40 most‑played Bulgarian artists were eligible, and because Poli hasn’t been in heavy rotation over the past year and a half, she simply didn’t qualify.

That’s right: the woman who put Bulgaria on the Eurovision map with If Love Was a Crime and has had a glittering career since was told “not this time” because she’s been too quiet on Bulgarian airwaves.

Poli shared it with surprising calm:

“Yes, I was considering entering this year’s selection, but the broadcaster’s rules said I couldn’t participate,” she said.
“I haven’t been in the Bulgarian radio airplay lists for a year and a half… and perhaps that’s why I didn’t have the opportunity.”

There was no bitterness in her voice — just a wry shrug that felt oddly poetic.

Not a No… Just Not Yet

Instead of storming off stage, Poli took the chance to remind everyone why she matters.

She talked about how she relishes Eurovision not for the scoreboard, but for the experience, and reflected fondly on her 2016 run:

“Back then I didn’t set goals or ask for specific results. I just wanted to perform and enjoy every second. Getting to the final was pure joy.”

Fast forward to today, and her dream has grown more deliberate:

“For me, the dream isn’t just one performance. It’s three: get through a semi‑final, sing in the final, and then win. That’s the dream.”

10 years on, it’s clear that Poli’s love for Eurovision hasn’t faded. If anything, it’s sharpened.

Looking Forward, Not Back

Poli didn’t paint herself as a victim. Instead, she talked about perspective, personal growth and how artists evolve — sometimes in ways that take them away from the spotlight before they’re ready to return stronger.

Her honesty about the selection rules has sparked conversations among fans and musicians alike about what Eurovision ought to value: the song and the performance, not simply marketing metrics. It’s a debate worth having.

And even though she won’t be on the Bulgarian stage this year, Poli Genova’s Eurovision story isn’t over. It just has a new chapter.

Source: dama.bg