The Eurovision Song Contest is headed to Basel, Switzerland in 2025.
After a competitive selection process to stage the show following NEMO’s victory in Sweden this year, submissions were narrowed down to a final two of Basel and Geneva, with Switzerland’s third-most-populous city winning the opportunity to host the 69th Eurovision Song Contest.
The bid process examined facilities at the venue, local infrastructure and the ability to accommodate thousands of visiting delegations, crew, fans and journalists from around the world, amongst other criteria.
Martin Österdahl, Executive Supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest said: “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 be bringing it back to its birthplace almost 70 years later.’
“Basel’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe makes it the ideal setting for an event that celebrates the power of music to connect people across borders.
“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.
“Following Contests in the Italian and French speaking parts of the country in 1956 and 1989 we’re also excited to bring the Eurovision Song Contest to German Switzerland for the very 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.”
Conradin Cramer, President of the Government of Basel added: “It is a great honour for Basel to be able to host the world’s biggest live music event! We are looking forward to this fantastic opportunity to present Basel to the world as a cosmopolitan city of culture in the heart of Europe.
“As an open city in the border triangle of Germany, France and Switzerland, we overcome borders of all kinds every day. This fits in perfectly with the Eurovision Song Contest. We are already looking forward to welcoming our guests from all over Europe: welcome to Basel!”
It marks the first time the Eurovision Song Contest hasn’t been hosted by a capital city for six consecutive editions.
Semi-Finals for the Contest will take place on Tuesday, May 13 and Thursday, May 15, with the Grand Final being help on Saturday, May 17, 2025.
