Germany: Stefan Raab pledges personal responsibility for Eurovision 2025 result

Germany’s Eurovision 2025 participation has a familiar face back at the helm: Stefan Raab. The renowned musician, producer, and television icon has returned to the Eurovision fold with a bold promise—he will take full responsibility if Germany fails to clinch the trophy in Basel.

Raab, who is spearheading ARD‘s new national selection process Chefsache ESC 2025 – Wer singt für Deutschland?, made his ambitions crystal clear in a statement revealed by Germany’s Head of Delegation, Alexandra Wolfslast. Speaking to The Euro Trip, Wolfslast disclosed:

“Stefan made it his personal challenge. He wants to win. He said, ‘Hold me responsible if we only come second,’ which is a big thing to say.”

Wolfslast also emphasized the significance of Raab’s hands-on approach, noting his clear vision and determination:

“We have a saying in Germany: too many chefs spoil the broth. With Eurovision, it’s often the case that too many voices get involved. This time, it’s Stefan’s show. He’s taking full control and full responsibility”.

Who is Stefan Raab?

Stefan Raab is no stranger to the Eurovision community, with a track record dating back to 1998 when he wrote Guildo Horn’s Guildo hat euch lieb! (7th place). He later performed Wadde hadde dudde da? in 2000, finishing fifth, and composed Max Mutzke’s 2004 entry, which also landed in the top 10. His crowning achievement came in 2010, when he guided Lena to victory with Satellite, securing Germany’s first win in nearly three decades.

Raab also hosted Eurovision in 2011 and served as a juror in 2012. Now, after years away from the spotlight, his return has reignited high hopes for Germany’s success.

The new format of the German National Selection

Stefan Raab is introducing a fresh approach to Germany’s National Selection with Chefsache ESC 2025 – Wer singt für Deutschland?. This four-part prime-time series, starting in February 2025, will determine the country’s representative for Basel. The process will feature 24 contestants, with Raab and a professional jury assessing the performances in the initial rounds. However, the final decision will rest solely in the hands of the German public through a televote.

In a notable shift, Raab has done away with the international jury that had been a staple in previous years, opting for a fully German-centric selection method. The grand finale, hosted by Barbara Schöneberger, will air live on ARD Das Erste on March 1, 2025.

Will this new format continue Germany’s upward trajectory, securing another spot on the left-hand side of the scoreboard—or perhaps even delivering the Eurovision victory Raab has promised?

Source: The Euro Trip Podcast