Basel has been chosen to host the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest, beating Geneva to stage the 69th edition. Following Swiss singer Nemo’s 2024 victory, Basel, located on the border with France and Germany, will host next year’s event on May 17. The European Broadcasting Union announced the selection.
Martin Osterdahl, the contest’s executive supervisor, expressed excitement about bringing Eurovision back to its Swiss birthplace. The event, which started in Lugano in 1956, has evolved from its humble beginnings into a colorful annual celebration watched by millions worldwide.
Hosting Eurovision provides economic benefits to the chosen city, attracting tourists and boosting industries. St. Jakobshalle in Basel will serve as the venue, accommodating over 12,000 spectators for the event.
The process of selecting the host city considered various factors, including venue facilities, transport links, sustainability, security, and the city’s support. Despite initial concerns about costs, Basel emerged as the preferred location for the renowned competition.