As the dust settles from Switzerland’s thrilling victory in Malmö with Nemo’s “The Code,” the announcement that Basel will host the Eurovision Song Contest in 2025 has sparked excitement and curiosity. The decision to host the contest in Basel, the country’s third-largest city and a cultural hub at the heart of Europe, is a significant one. But what makes Basel particularly well-suited for this iconic event? Let’s delve into why Basel is a stellar choice for Eurovision 2025.
1. A Cultural Melting Pot at Europe’s Crossroads
Basel’s location is one of its most defining characteristics. Nestled at the meeting point of Switzerland, Germany, and France, Basel is a true European crossroads. This geographical positioning has imbued the city with a rich, multicultural atmosphere that is reflective of Eurovision’s own spirit of unity and diversity. As Martin Österdahl, Executive Supervisor of Eurovision, noted, Basel’s “strategic location at the crossroads of Europe makes it the ideal setting for an event that celebrates the power of music to connect people across borders.
2. A Proven Track Record in Hosting Major Events
Basel’s experience in hosting large-scale international events also makes it a logical choice for Eurovision. The city regularly hosts Art Basel, one of the world’s premier contemporary art fairs, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year. This experience in managing large crowds and international delegations will be invaluable in ensuring that Eurovision 2025 runs smoothly.
Moreover, the St. Jakobshalle, the venue chosen for the event, is one of Switzerland’s premier indoor arenas. With a capacity of over 9,000, it has hosted major concerts, sporting events, and exhibitions. The arena’s modern facilities, combined with its ability to accommodate the complex technical requirements of a Eurovision production, make it an ideal venue (EBU).
3. A Fresh Opportunity for German-Speaking Switzerland
Interestingly, Basel’s selection also marks the first time that Eurovision will be hosted in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Previous Swiss editions in Lugano (1956) and Lausanne (1989) took place in the Italian and French-speaking regions, respectively. This presents a unique opportunity to showcase a different facet of Swiss culture to a global audience.
The local enthusiasm is palpable. Conradin Cramer, President of the Government of Basel, expressed pride in Basel being chosen, emphasizing the city’s openness and cultural significance (euronews). For Basel, Eurovision is not just an event but an opportunity to present itself as a cosmopolitan city of culture, ready to welcome the world.
4. Challenges and Opportunities
However, hosting Eurovision is not without its challenges. The influx of visitors will put pressure on local infrastructure, from accommodation to transportation. Basel’s relatively small size compared to other Eurovision host cities could be a double-edged sword; while it may offer a more intimate and manageable event, ensuring that all logistical aspects meet the demands of Eurovision’s large-scale production will require careful planning.
Yet, these challenges are also opportunities. Basel’s ability to seamlessly integrate its historic charm with modern amenities will be crucial. The city’s excellent public transport system and proximity to major European cities provide a solid foundation for managing the logistical demands.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Unity and Culture
In choosing Basel, the European Broadcasting Union and the Host Broadcaster SRG SSR have made a statement about the values Eurovision holds dear: unity, diversity, and cultural exchange. Basel, with its rich history, strategic location, and experience in hosting international events, is more than capable of rising to the occasion. The 2025 Eurovision Song Contest promises to be a spectacular celebration of music on the banks of the Rhine, resonating far beyond the stage and into the hearts of millions across Europe and the world.
As Eurovision returns to Switzerland nearly 70 years after it first began in Lugano, Basel is set to shine as a beacon of European unity and cultural celebration. Let the preparations begin!
