The wait is almost over for Eurovision fans! After a rigorous selection process, Swiss broadcaster SRG has announced the final two contenders to host the 69th Eurovision Song Contest in May 2025: Basel and Geneva!
The initial field of hopeful cities submitted bids by the end of June, vying for the honor of hosting this prestigious event. Each bid was meticulously evaluated based on a comprehensive set of criteria including:
- Venue quality and accessibility: Suitability of the proposed arena, ease of public transportation access for attendees.
- Sustainability measures: Emphasis on environmentally friendly practices throughout the event.
- Accommodation availability: Sufficient hotel rooms to accommodate performers, delegations, and fans.
- Security and infrastructure: Robust security measures and essential waste disposal systems.
- Financial investment: Funding allocated for hosting the contest.
- Event experience expertise: Proven ability to organize large-scale events.
- Citywide support and enthusiasm: Demonstrated commitment and excitement from the city itself.
A dedicated Eurovision Song Contest core team spent the past few weeks scrutinizing the bids from Basel, Geneva, Zurich, and Berne/Biel. This intensive process included on-site meetings with representatives from each city. A combination of quantitative and qualitative factors were considered, along with each city’s commitment and creative ideas to ensure a truly unforgettable Eurovision 2025.
The esteemed accounting and consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) oversaw this meticulous evaluation. Following their analysis, the ESC 2025 Steering Committee, led by SRG Director General Gilles Marchand, determined Basel and Geneva to be the strongest contenders. These two cities will now move forward to the final stage of consideration.
The final decision on the host city will be made in late August. Stay tuned, Eurovision fans! We’ll soon know which of these Swiss cities will have the privilege of welcoming the world for a celebration of music and national pride!
