The Swiss city of Basel has been announced as the host of the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, marking the country's return to the competition after a 36-year absence. The semi-finals, scheduled for 13th and 15th May, and the grand final on 17th May, will be held at the St Jakobshalle arena, a versatile venue with a capacity of 12,400.
This year's victor, non-binary Swiss singer Nemo, propelled Switzerland back into the Eurovision spotlight with their winning song "The Code." This win followed the tradition of the contest being hosted by the victorious country, resulting in a selection process that saw Basel emerge as the chosen city.
Basel triumphed over fellow contenders Bern, Geneva, and Zurich, becoming the second city in Switzerland, after Lugano in 1956, to host the prestigious event. Notably, this will also be the sixth consecutive year that the contest is held outside a capital city.
The St Jakobshalle arena, located in Münchenstein, is a well-established venue for large-scale events, regularly hosting indoor sports and concerts. Its strategic location within Basel, considered a crossroads of Europe, adds to its appeal as a host city for the Eurovision Song Contest.
Martin Ãsterdahl, Executive Supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest, expressed his enthusiasm for Basel's selection. "The EBU is thrilled that Basel has been selected as the Host City for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025," he stated. "The Contest was born in Switzerland in Lugano back in 1956 and itâs 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," Ãsterdahl continued. "With its unique blend of tradition and innovation, Basel reflects the spirit of the Eurovision Song Contest."
He further highlighted the venue's capabilities, "The cityâs exceptional St. Jakobshalle venue and outstanding hospitality will ensure a memorable experience for delegations, artists and fans alike."
While the 2024 contest saw the United Kingdom receive a disappointing zero public votes for Olly Alexander's performance of "Dizzy," UK fans will be hopeful for a better showing in 2025. Despite the zero points, Alexander and his team appeared to take the result in stride, celebrating their performance with laughter and cheer.
As Switzerland prepares to host the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, the international community eagerly awaits the next chapter in the competition's illustrious history.
