The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 is set to dazzle audiences worldwide as it kicks off in Basel, Switzerland, with the first semifinal scheduled for May 13. The event promises to be a spectacle filled with music, excitement, and controversy as 37 countries compete for the coveted Crystal Microphone.
This year, the prestigious contest will unfold at the St. Jakobshalle, a venue known for hosting significant events, with a capacity of up to 12,400 spectators. The anticipation is palpable as fans prepare for what is expected to be a memorable week, culminating in the grand final on May 17.
Following last year’s victory by Nemo with the song "The Code," Switzerland takes on the responsibility of hosting the 69th edition of Eurovision. The event will feature two semifinals, with the first set for May 13 at 21:00 Central European Time, where 15 countries will vie for one of the 10 available spots in the final.
Among the countries competing in the first semifinal are Iceland, Ukraine, Slovenia, and Sweden, with Spain and Italy also participating in the voting process, despite not competing due to their inclusion in the 'Big Five.' Melody will represent Spain with her empowering anthem "Esa Diva," performing between Estonia and Ukraine in the lineup.
The second semifinal, taking place on May 15, will feature 16 countries, including Austria, Ireland, and Australia, with viewers from the UK, France, and Germany also allowed to vote. This year, the voting system has changed; public votes now hold 100% of the decision-making power, a shift that has stirred debate among fans and participants alike.
As the competition heats up, the atmosphere is charged with both excitement and tension. The participation of Israel has sparked significant controversy, particularly given the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in over 60,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2024. More than 70 former Eurovision contestants have signed a petition calling for Israel's exclusion from the contest, highlighting the intersection of politics and entertainment.
Israel will be represented by Yuval Raphael, a survivor of the Hamas attacks, performing the song "New Day Will Rise." Critics argue that the song's themes could be interpreted as politically charged, raising concerns about adherence to Eurovision's rules against political content.
Despite the controversies, the musical competition remains the heart of Eurovision. Sweden emerges as a favorite with the trio KAJ, whose song "Bara Bada Bastu" is sung in a Swedish-Finnish dialect. This marks a significant moment as it is the first time since 1998 that Sweden is competing in its own language, signaling a shift in the festival's linguistic landscape.
Other strong contenders include Austria's JJ with "Wasted Love," a dramatic ballad that transitions into a disco finale, and Louane from France with her emotional piece "Maman," dedicated to her mother. The Netherlands will be represented by Claude, who brings a vibrant mix of pop and African rhythms with "C'est La Vie." Each artist aims to leave a lasting impression on the audience and judges alike.
In the lead-up to the semifinals, Melody has seen a surge in her betting odds, climbing to 18th place among the 37 participants. Her performance at the Benidorm Fest earlier this year has garnered attention, and she is set to deliver a revised version of her song to appeal to a broader audience.
The Eurovision 2025 festivities commence with the traditional turquoise carpet event on May 11, where the participating countries will showcase their talent and charisma. This year’s edition is notable for featuring a diverse range of languages, with fewer songs in English than in previous years, reflecting a broader cultural representation.
As the excitement builds, fans are encouraged to tune in to the live broadcasts of the semifinals and final on La1 de TVE, or stream the event online via RTVE Play. The first semifinal begins at 21:00, with the voting results expected to be announced around 23:00.
With the stage set and the competitors ready to shine, Eurovision 2025 promises to be a thrilling celebration of music, culture, and unity, even amidst the backdrop of controversy and global challenges. As countries prepare to showcase their best talents, the question remains: who will take home the Crystal Microphone this year? The world will be watching closely as the drama unfolds in Basel.
