The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 is set to bring new excitement to fans with a revamped format for announcing finalists during the semi-finals. This year, instead of simply naming the ten qualifying countries in sequence, three potential acts will be showcased at once, with only one being selected to advance. This innovative change aims to heighten the emotional stakes of the event, as viewers will be left in suspense before the final announcement is made.
This fresh approach was revealed in a documentary by Swiss broadcaster SRF, which has been documenting the journey to the contest. The semi-finals will feature the charismatic duo of Sandra Studer and Hazel Brugger as moderators, while the final will see the addition of renowned presenter Michelle Hunziker. Notably, Studer herself has a rich history with the Eurovision Song Contest, having participated in 1991, where she achieved a respectable fifth place for Switzerland with her song "Canzone per te." Now, she returns to the stage as a host, fulfilling a long-held dream.
According to Reto Peritz, the Co-Executive Producer of the ESC 2025, the new format has been approved and rehearsals are underway. The documentary showcases how the script for the semi-finals will unfold, with Studer introducing three countries at a time, followed by Brugger announcing the next finalist. This change is expected to create a more engaging and emotional experience for both the performers and the audience.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 will take place in Basel, Switzerland, from May 13 to May 17, with the semi-finals occurring on May 13 and May 15 at 9 PM, followed by the grand final on May 17 at 9 PM. The event has garnered significant attention, especially following the controversies of the previous year, where protests overshadowed the competition. This year’s motto, "United by Music," aims to reaffirm the contest's core values and celebrate the power of music to bring people together.
Among the competitors, Germany will be represented by the sibling duo Abor & Tynna, performing their pop number "Baller." This act marks a comeback project led by entertainment mogul Stefan Raab. The competition is expected to be fierce, with Sweden’s KAJ and their song "Bara Bada Bastu" currently leading predictions as a favorite. Other countries like France, Austria, the Netherlands, and Israel are also considered strong contenders.
In a noteworthy twist, the organizers have introduced stricter rules this year, permitting only the official national flags on stage, thereby aiming to avoid any political messages that could detract from the spirit of the event. This policy comes in response to the uproar from last year’s contest, where tensions ran high over political issues.
For fans eager to catch the action, the semi-finals and final will be broadcast live on various platforms, including ONE and ARD’s Mediathek. The grand final will also be available on BBC One and iPlayer, with commentary provided by Graham Norton, known for his humorous and engaging insights.
Adding to the anticipation is the possibility of a special appearance by global superstar Céline Dion. The Canadian singer, who won the contest in 1988 with her entry "Ne partez pas sans moi," has expressed interest in performing at the final. However, her ongoing battle with Stiff-Person Syndrome has raised concerns about her ability to participate. Reto Peritz confirmed that they remain in contact with Dion, and while her attendance is uncertain, plans are in place for both scenarios—should she be able to perform or if she cannot make it.
As the contest approaches, excitement is building not just for the performances but for the emotional journey that each act will undertake. The new format for announcing finalists is expected to amplify the experience, drawing viewers into the drama of the contest like never before. With a star-studded lineup, innovative changes, and a commitment to creating a more inclusive atmosphere, the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 promises to be a memorable event.
For those planning to watch, here are the key dates to remember: the first semi-final kicks off on May 13, followed by the second on May 15, with the grand finale concluding the festivities on May 17. Fans can expect a night filled with dazzling performances, emotional moments, and, of course, the iconic voting process that keeps everyone on the edge of their seats.
As the countdown to the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 continues, the anticipation is palpable. Will the new announcement format create the excitement organizers hope for? Will Céline Dion make a triumphant return to the Eurovision stage? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—the world will be watching.
