The road to the 70th Eurovision Song Contest has reached a fever pitch for Polish supporters following the successful progression of Alicja Szemplińska to the grand final. After a performance in the first semi-final that left audiences and netizens stunned by her vocal clarity and power, the young artist has now received a significant endorsement from one of Poland’s most storied musical icons.
Edyta Górniak, who represented Poland in the 1994 contest, has weighed in on Szemplińska’s performance, offering a blend of high praise and cautionary veteran advice. Speaking during a press conference on Thursday, May 14, 2026, Górniak did not mince words regarding the quality of the performance, identifying Szemplińska as the standout act of the opening semi-final.
For a global audience following the competition, the validation from Górniak carries substantial weight. Having navigated the immense pressure of the international stage decades ago, Górniak’s assessment focuses not just on the aesthetic appeal of the show, but on the rigorous technical foundation required to survive and thrive in the final. The interaction highlights a passing of the torch between generations of Polish talent as the country looks to make its mark on the 70th edition of the contest.
Technical Mastery and Stage Presence
During her interview with Fakt, Edyta Górniak emphasized that Szemplińska’s success is not accidental but the result of disciplined preparation. Górniak noted that the singer is very well grounded in her technique and possesses a level of concentration that is clearly visible during her performances.
Beyond the technical execution, Górniak praised Szemplińska’s intentionality and vocal capabilities. She observed that the artist knows exactly why she is stepping onto the stage, demonstrating a level of confidence and purpose that resonates with the audience. Specifically, Górniak highlighted Szemplińska’s impressive vocal range and her ability to access “beautiful sounds” that create a lasting impression on the listener.
This level of technical proficiency is often the deciding factor in the Eurovision final, where the combination of live orchestration, high-pressure environments, and massive acoustic spaces can challenge even the most experienced vocalists. By identifying Szemplińska as the best in the first semi-final, Górniak has positioned her as a serious contender in the upcoming clash of nations.
The Veteran’s Advice: Health and Energy Management
Despite her confidence in Szemplińska’s abilities, Górniak provided a specific and pragmatic piece of advice that underscores the fragility of a vocalist’s instrument. While she expressed that she is “completely calm” about the singer’s talent, she issued a simple but critical warning: “Oby się nie przeziębiła” (Hope she doesn’t catch a cold).
This caution is rooted in the reality of the competition’s grueling schedule and the physical toll of international travel, and performance. Górniak urged the young singer to be mindful of her health and to be strategic with her emotional and physical output. She advised Szemplińska to direct her energy primarily toward the performance itself, suggesting that she should only distribute that energy to the media and fans after the main event is concluded.
Such advice reflects the psychological discipline required for high-stakes competitions. In the world of elite performance, managing “energy leakage” to external pressures—such as the relentless cycle of press interviews and fan expectations—is often as important as the rehearsal process itself.
A Legacy of Polish Representation
The dialogue between Górniak and Szemplińska serves as a reminder of Poland’s history with the Eurovision Song Contest. Górniak’s own experience in 1994 remains a benchmark for Polish participants, and her willingness to mentor the new generation underscores the continuity of the country’s musical ambitions.
The timing of these comments coincided with Górniak’s own preparations for a different high-profile event. On May 14, she attended a conference for a Polsat festival scheduled to take place at the Sopot amphitheater. The upcoming concert is dedicated to the work of Krzysztof Krawczyk, who passed away five years ago, further cementing Górniak’s role as a pillar of the Polish music scene.
As Szemplińska prepares for the final, she does so with the backing of a veteran who understands the specific stressors of the Eurovision stage. The transition from the semi-finals to the final is often where the mental game becomes as critical as the vocal one, and having the public support of a figure like Górniak provides a significant psychological boost.
The next confirmed checkpoint for the competition is the grand final, where Alicja Szemplińska will compete against the other qualifying nations for the 70th Eurovision title. We will continue to monitor the developments as Poland seeks a victory on the international stage.
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