Eurovision Song Contest 2025 to Be Held in a Swiss City

The Eurovision organisers have announced that Basel, a city in Switzerland, will host the Eurovision Song Contest next year. This announcement follows Switzerland’s win at the 2024 contest, where Nemo’s performance of “The Code” secured their hosting role for 2025.

For the first time, the contest will be held in the German-speaking region of Switzerland. Previous Swiss-hosted editions took place in Lugano in 1956 and Lausanne in 1989. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) released a statement detailing Basel’s selection through a competitive bidding process, evaluating venue facilities, local infrastructure, and the capacity to accommodate thousands of international guests.

Four cities vied for the hosting title: Basel, Bern, Geneva, and Zurich. After a fierce competition, the choice was narrowed down to Basel and Geneva, with Basel ultimately winning the bid.

The events, including the semi-finals and grand final, will take place at St Jakobshalle. The semi-finals are scheduled for 13 and 15 May, and the grand final will occur on 17 May. Six additional dress rehearsals will be held during the same week.

A list of participating countries for the 69th Eurovision Song Contest will be announced later this year. Switzerland has hosted and won the first Eurovision in Lugano in 1956 and won again in 1988 with Dublin as the host, preceding Nemo’s recent victory.

Martin Österdahl, executive supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest, expressed his enthusiasm: “The EBU is thrilled that Basel has been selected as the Host City for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. The contest was born in Switzerland in Lugano back in 1956, and it’s great to bring it back to its birthplace almost 70 years later.”

“Basel’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe makes it an ideal setting for an event that celebrates the power of music to connect people across borders.”

He added, “With its unique blend of tradition and innovation, Basel reflects the spirit of the Eurovision Song Contest. The city’s exceptional St Jakobshalle venue and outstanding hospitality will ensure a memorable experience for delegations, artists, and fans alike.”

Österdahl noted, “Following contests in the Italian and French-speaking parts of the country in 1956 and 1989, we’re excited to bring the Eurovision Song Contest to German Switzerland for the first time. Together with Host Broadcaster SRG SSR and the city of Basel, we will create a spectacular celebration of music on the banks of the River Rhine that resonates far beyond the stage.”

As preparations get underway, anticipation builds for what promises to be a spectacular and memorable Eurovision Song Contest in Basel next year.

Source: AP, Getty Images