Eurovision 2025 Grand Final Set to Ignite in Basel

BASSEL, Switzerland — The Eurovision Song Contest returns to Basel on Saturday, May 17, with 26 countries competing for the iconic glass microphone trophy. This year’s theme, ‘Welcome Home,’ commemorates Switzerland’s host role since the first contest in 1956.

Betting odds currently favor Sweden’s KAJ, representing with their upbeat entry ‘Bara Bada Bastu,’ a song celebrating sauna culture. Despite its novelty appeal, history suggests voters often favor anthems of perseverance and traditional pop.

Kevin Holmström, a member of KAJ, explained, ‘It felt natural to sing about the sauna. It’s universal.’ Finland, known for having over three million saunas, pulses with sauna spirit embodied in their performance, which includes a mock sauna set with dancers and props.

Austria’s entry, ‘Wasted Love,’ performed by Johannes Pietsch, draws from his opera background as he navigates the theme of unreciprocated feelings in a dramatic stage setting that simulates a sinking ship.

French singer Louane brings emotional depth to the contest with ‘Maman,’ a personal tribute to her late mother, showcasing her journey from grief to healing by connecting with her own child.

The Netherlands’ Claude Kiambe dedicates ‘C’est La Vie‘ to his mother, blending Afropop with heartfelt storytelling from his childhood in Congo. He aims to share a message of resilience that reflects their journey.

Erika Vikman from Finland approaches the contest with a bold track addressing female empowerment and sexuality, rejecting genre constraints and aiming for a standout performance devoid of typical choreography.

UK entry Remember Monday aims to reverse the country’s recent Eurovision fortunes with a catchy crafted pop tune, bolstered by their theatrical background.

Switzerland’s representative, Zoë Më, will also be highlighting the joys of music, marking the country’s important role in Eurovison history. With ten countries joining the mix, each will perform live, followed by a blend of jury and public votes to crown the winner.

The grand final is anticipated to feature not only passionate performances but also some unexpected twists, as fans and jurors have their say, potentially reshaping the leaderboard. Excitement is high as the stage is set for a colorful blend of pop, joy, and cultural spirit.