Basel and Geneva: Finalists for Eurovision Song Contest 2025 Host City

Basel and Geneva have been selected as the two finalist cities in SRG’s ongoing process to determine the host city for the Eurovision Song Contest in Switzerland in May 2025. The final decision will be made public in late August.

Selection Process Details

Cities had until the end of June to submit their bids to SRG, based on a comprehensive set of requirements. The evaluation focused on:

• Arena concept
• Public transport links
• Sustainability
• Available hotel accommodation
• Security and waste disposal plans
• Investment
• Event experience
• Citywide support and enthusiasm

Thorough Assessment

Proposals from Basel, Geneva, Zurich, and Berne/Biel were carefully examined by an ESC core team working group. The review included both quantitative and qualitative factors, as well as the cities’ commitment and innovative ideas to ensure ESC 2025 is a standout event.

The review process was overseen by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). Following the recommendation of the core team, the ESC 2025 Steering Committee, led by SRG Director General Gilles Marchand, chose Basel and Geneva as the leading candidates.

Significant Investment – Economic Opportunities

Reto Peritz and Moritz Stadler, co-executive producers of ESC 2025, personally informed the finalist cities of their status and outlined the next steps. The project team remains available to assist Zurich and Berne/Biel with any planned Eurovision-related activities, such as public viewings.

Hosting the Eurovision Song Contest is a major investment but promises substantial economic benefits. According to a study by the University of Liverpool, the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 brought an economic boost of EUR 62 million to Liverpool. In May 2023, 175,000 hotel rooms were booked in the city, and 600 jobs were created over the year.

Celebrating Diversity and Unity

The Eurovision Song Contest in May 2025 aims to be a grand celebration for the host city and an event that promotes diversity, music, and culture. It seeks to unite people and foster a sense of community.

Stay updated with Eurovisionfun for all the latest news on the Eurovision Song Contest 2025!

Source: SRG-SSR