The Eurovision Song Contest is set to make a grand return in 2025, with the Faroe Islands’ national broadcaster, KvF (Kringvarp Føroya), gearing up to broadcast the event. This year’s contest is particularly significant as it marks the participation of Sissal, Denmark’s representative, who hails from the Faroe Islands. This will be the second time an artist from the archipelago will take to the Eurovision stage, following Reiley’s performance in 2023.
The Faroe Islands, a North Atlantic archipelago and part of the Kingdom of Denmark, are not a fully independent nation and thus are not members of international organizations like the United Nations or the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). However, KvF has been actively pursuing full membership in the EBU, a goal they estimate will take five years to achieve. The excitement surrounding Sissal’s participation has reignited interest in the Faroe Islands’ bid for Eurovision independence.
As the first set of rehearsals for Eurovision 2025 kicks off today, delegations from various countries are making their way to the host city of Basel. The rehearsals are set to begin on May 4, 2025, at the St. Jakobshalle, where each delegation will have 40 minutes to perfect their performances. Among those traveling today are teams from Belgium, Azerbaijan, San Marino, Albania, the Netherlands, Croatia, and Cyprus, all of whom will compete in the second half of Semi-Final 1 on May 13.
Marko Bošnjak and the Croatian team departed from Franjo Tuđman International Airport Zagreb earlier this morning, while Katarsis, representing Lithuania, left Vilnius International Airport. Red Sebastian and the Belgian delegation are set to travel from Brussels Zaventem International Airport, utilizing a specially designed tour bus for their journey to Basel. Meanwhile, Mamagama from Azerbaijan shared their safe arrival in Basel via Instagram.
Claude and the Dutch delegation flew out from Schipol Airport this morning, although Claude remained tight-lipped about his outfit and staging details, hinting that he would not include the dance break from his music video “C’est la vie.” Norway’s delegation departed Oslo yesterday, featuring new backing singers and a breakdance star, while Australia’s Go-Jo left Finland earlier today, concluding a month of preparations in Europe.
Switzerland, the host of Eurovision 2025, earned the honor after Nemo triumphed at the 2024 contest with their entry “The Code,” which scored an impressive 591 points, marking Switzerland’s first victory since 1988. The 69th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest will take place on May 13, 15, and 17, 2025, and promises to bring together a vibrant mix of cultures and musical talents.
In preparation for the event, Basel has mobilized around 700 volunteers to assist with various tasks during the contest. Approximately 320 people attended one of the two official information events held on May 2, 2025, at the Congress Centre in Basel. These volunteers will be responsible for looking after international delegations, greeting fans, and directing the flow of visitors, among other duties.
According to Sarah Kreis, Head of Volunteer at Host City Basel, the volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, representing 33 nations, with the oldest volunteer being 80 years old. Initially, 7,000 volunteers registered for the opportunity, but the current phase saw 3,500 individuals express interest. In exchange for their service, volunteers will receive a behind-the-scenes look at the Eurovision experience, along with clothing, goodies, food, and an invitation to a closing party. They will also benefit from free public transport and the chance to participate in a parade scheduled for May 11, 2025.
The buzz surrounding Eurovision 2025 continues to build as fans and participants alike prepare for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of music and culture. With the Faroe Islands’ representation and the enthusiastic involvement of local volunteers, this year’s contest is poised to be a memorable event in Eurovision history.
