Eurovision 2016 is still the guts of a year away, but already speculation is mounting as to what countries might make their debut in Sweden. On the eve of this year’s edition, China’s head of delegation confirmed that they were exploring participation options. The next day, a Kosovan politician tweeted that he knew the partially recognised state would participate in the 2016 contest. Both events sent the rumour mill into overdrive… until today, when the EBU denied that either country would be taking part.

The denials were made on Twitter in answer to fan questions. Interestingly, there is a subtle difference in the responses. On Kosovo the wording was unequivocal – Kosovo “cannot take part in Eurovision”. In contrast, there are “no plans for China to take part right now”.

The EBU on Kosovo

@escserbia @eurovisionpress Currently Kosovo has neither an Active nor Associate EBU Member and therefore cannot take part in @Eurovision — EBU (@EBU_HQ) June 3, 2015

The EBU on China

@electrowaffle @Eurovision No plans for China to take part right now – but they do have an Associate EBU Member — EBU (@EBU_HQ) June 3, 2015

Does this mean we should expect a Chinese participation sooner rather than later? And after Australia’s unprecedented “guest” spot in Vienna, is it even safe to completely rule out Kosovo? Share your thoughts below.

Kosovo at Eurovision: Yes or no?

China at Eurovision: Yes or no?

CHINA AT EUROVISION: HEAD OF DELEGATION INTERVIEW

SUBSCRIBE TO WIWI.TV FOR THE LATEST EUROVISION VIDEOS