Switzerland is buzzing with Eurovision fever after Nemo’s triumphant win with “The Code” in 2024! As the host nation for 2025, the excitement is palpable, with four cities vying to take center stage for this prestigious song contest. While the official bidding process hasn’t begun, Geneva, Zürich, Basel, and St. Gallen have already thrown their names into the ring, each eager to showcase their unique strengths.
Meeting Eurovision’s Requirements:
The Eurovision Song Contest isn’t your average music competition. To host this grand spectacle, a city needs to meet specific criteria set by the European Broadcasting Union. These benchmarks ensure a smooth running of the event and a comfortable experience for participants and fans alike.
- Financial Muscle: A significant financial contribution is required from the host city to cover the operational costs of the contest.
- Big Enough Stage: The venue needs to have a capacity of at least 10,000 spectators, ready to cheer on their favorite entries.
- Global Connections: An international airport with a strong network of European flights is crucial for delegations and fans traveling from across the continent.
- Getting Around with Ease: Efficient public transportation within the city ensures smooth movement for participants, the press, and fans during the contest week.
- A Room with a View: At least 2,000 hotel rooms are needed to accommodate the influx of visitors for the competition.
- Beyond the Stage: Infrastructure and venues to host the Press Centre, Delegation Bubble (secure area for competing artists), Eurovision Village (fan zone), EuroClub (after-party venue), and various side events.
The Contenders:
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Geneva: Palexpo, the International Exhibition and Convention Center, is their proposed venue. It boasts proximity to the EBU headquarters and Geneva’s international airport, along with ample space and hotel capacity.
Following Nemo’s victory at the 2024 #Eurovision Song Contest on Saturday night in Malmö, Switzerland will host the event in May 2025.#Palexpo, in collaboration with the #Geneva authorities, is working to host the event in Geneva in 2025, which will be organised by the SSR. pic.twitter.com/XZjVX83u5W
— Palexpo (@Palexpo) May 13, 2024
- Zürich: Hallenstadion, Switzerland’s largest concert hall (15,000 capacity), is their frontrunner. Its proximity to Zürich Airport, the SRF broadcaster base, and the World Trade Center makes it ideal for both the competition and side events. To NZZ.ch, Philipp Musshafen, the CEO of The Hallenstadion, were told to reserve the venue for the possibility of hosting Eurovision: ““We were told to reserve six to eight weeks from around the beginning of April to mid-May 2025, with a possible, still unofficial date for the final on May 10th.”
- Basel: St. Jakobshalle, with a 12,000-seat arena and five additional halls, is their contender. Situated at the crossroads of Switzerland, France, and Germany, Basel offers excellent transportation links and an international airport (EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg). Basel District President Conradin Cramer expressed in a recent post that the city is eager to host Eurovision: “Congratulations to Nemo on the fantastic victory at #ESC2024 in Malmö! Now Switzerland will host #ESC2025. Basel is an excellent place for this event. And we are ready: with our infrastructure, accessibility, and hospitality. #ESC2025Basel”
Herzliche Gratulation an Nemo zum grossartigen Sieg beim #ESC2024 in Malmö! Nun wird die Schweiz den #ESC2025 austragen. Als Austragungsort eignet sich #Basel hervorragend. Und wir sind parat: mit unserer Infrastruktur, Erreichbarkeit und Gastfreundschaft. #ESC2025Basel
— Conradin Cramer (@ConradinCramer) May 12, 2024
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- St. Gallen: The newly-built Kantonalbank Hall, accommodating 12,000 spectators, represents their bid. While the city has a limited-service airport, it’s a quick train ride from Zürich Airport. The venue made public a post on their Facebook page about the possibility of hosting Eurovision 2025:
Who Will Win the Bid?
The decision ultimately rests with the EBU and Swiss broadcaster SRF. Each city brings unique advantages: Geneva offers convenience and EBU proximity; Zürich boasts the largest venue and easy access; Basel highlights its central location and strong transport network; and St. Gallen presents modern facilities and regional charm.
With a formal evaluation process on the horizon, one thing is certain: the competition is fierce. Switzerland is abuzz with Eurovision enthusiasm, and each city promises a unique and unforgettable experience for fans and participants alike. The wait is on to see which city will take the crown and become the dazzling host of Eurovision 2025!
