The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 concluded with a spectacular grand final in Basel, Switzerland, where Sweden secured its eighth victory, reinforcing its status as the most successful country in the competition’s history.
Sweden’s KAJ Wins with “Bara Bada Bastu”
Swedish trio KAJ stole the spotlight with their quirky, sauna-themed track “Bara Bada Bastu.” Their humorous tribute to Nordic culture resonated with both the jury and the public, earning them top marks and securing the win.
Unforgettable Performances Across Europe
The evening featured 26 countries and a broad mix of genres and artistic styles. Among the standout performances:
- Austria’s JJ impressed with strong vocals in “Wasted Love.”
- France’s Louane delivered an emotional ballad that connected with viewers.
- Estonia’s Tommy Cash turned heads with the avant-garde “Espresso Macchiato.”
- Iceland’s VÆB offered a genre-bending act with “Róa.”
- The United Kingdom’s Remember Monday rocked the stage with “What the Hell Just Happened?”
A Global Stage Amidst Rising Tensions
Despite its focus on music and unity, this year’s contest faced political challenges. Israel’s participation prompted protests due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. In response, the European Broadcasting Union reinforced its stance on inclusivity and made changes to its flag policy to accommodate various national and symbolic representations.
Basel Embraces Eurovision
Basel, hosting Eurovision for the first time, turned into a celebration of culture, attracting tens of thousands of visitors. The city reported a hotel occupancy rate of over 95% and estimated revenue of approximately €64 million. Local streets and public squares were filled with fan zones, decorations, and live screenings, creating a festive atmosphere.
Looking Ahead
Eurovision 2025 was a celebration of musical diversity and cross-cultural expression. With Sweden’s victory, the nation now looks ahead to hosting the next contest. As fans bid farewell to Basel, attention turns to the future, where new voices will once again compete for the title of Europe’s favorite song.
