Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about the Eurovision song Contest
Where will the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest be held?
In Basel, Swizerland after Nemo gave their country its 3rd win in the competition in Malmö in May 2024.
When will the event take place?
Two Semi-Finals will be held on Tuesday 13 and Thursday 15 May with the Grand Final on Saturday 17 May 2025 at Basel’s St Jakobshalle venue.
How many countries will take part?
The full list of participating broadcasters will be revealed before the end of 2024
How many countries will compete in the Semi-Finals?
When the number of participating broadcasters are announced the number of countries competing in the Semi-Finals will also be known. 10 countries from each Semi- Final will qualify for the Grand Final.
Which countries are automatically qualified for the Grand Final?
The so-called “Big 5” countries, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom are automatically qualified for the Grand Final. They will be joined by hosts Switzerland.
Will Switzerland, as winners, have an automatic place in the Grand Final?
Yes, Switzerland’s song in 2024 will not have to qualify from the Semi-Finals as is traditional for the winning country of the previous year.
How did you make the final decision on the Host City?
Basel demonstrated they have the capacity, capability and experience to host an event of the scale and complexity of the Eurovision Song Contest. They are experienced in hosting major international events and demonstrated their credentials in hosting a celebration of contemporary music.
Basel scored highest against an agreed evaluation criteria assessed by host broadcaster SRG SSR and agreed by the EBU. They have a suitable venue, St. Jakobshalle and sufficient space to deliver the requirements of the Song Contest, their financial contribution from across the city and region, the strength of their cultural offer which includes off screen local and regional activity.
There was a formal ‘Request for Proposal (RFP)’ process, where each city was assessed against a set of criteria clearly set out for all parties.
When will tickets go on sale for the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest?
Tickets for the 3 Live Shows and 6 Preview Shows will go on sale later in 2024. More details will be revealed on eurovision.tv and our social media channels before the sale begins.
What does Basel offer for the event?
Basel has a fantastic venue and a cultural offer that celebrates the diversity, inclusivity and universality of the event. The team in Basel will be fantastic partners for SRG SSR and EBU in delivering the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest.
Who will present the shows?
The hosts for the 69th Eurovision Song Contest will be revealed at a later date
How will the Eurovision Song Contest be funded?
The Eurovision Song Contest is a co-production between around 40 public broadcasters from all over Europe, who contribute to the production budget, along with the Host Broadcaster, national and international sponsors, revenues from ticket sales and a contribution from the Host City.
Why do cities need to make a financial contribution?
Given the benefits that will flow to Basel, the Host City will contribute financially to the hosting of the ESC (both in direct costs and in-kind contributions). The Eurovision Song Contest television shows are fully funded by SRG SSR and Participating Broadcasters.
What is the situation with booking accommodation in the Host City?
SRG SSR and the EBU are working closely with the local authorities in Basel and the hotels directly to ensure that hotels are available for fans and media at reasonable costs. We are seeking to maximize the available rooms both in Basel and the wider region, as we know there will be a huge demand for accommodation during this period.
How can I obtain media accreditation for the event?
More details on how to apply for accreditation for the event will be revealed in early 2025.
How can I volunteer at the event?
More details on how to volunteer at the event will be revealed later in 2024.
How can I submit a song to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest?
Each participating broadcaster is responsible for choosing the song and artist that will represent them at the Eurovision Song Contest. This is done in different ways in different countries. Some choose their artist and song internally, following a request for public submissions. Others have a televised national final. Please contact the broadcaster from the country you are interested in to find out more regarding their selection process.
