In a monumental decision, Basel has officially been selected as the host city for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. The announcement marks a historic moment for the city, which has never before hosted the iconic event. With its rich cultural history, strategic location, and world-class facilities, Basel is set to deliver an unforgettable Eurovision experience.
Basel’s Winning Bid: A Blend of Culture, Innovation, and Strategic Location
Basel’s selection came after a competitive bidding process that included strong proposals from other Swiss cities. Ultimately, Basel’s bid stood out for its combination of cultural significance, logistical capabilities, and its strategic location at the heart of Europe. The city’s slogan for the event, “Crossing Borders,” perfectly encapsulates Basel’s unique position at the tripoint of Switzerland, Germany, and France, symbolizing unity and cultural exchange.
The St. Jakobshalle, a versatile arena with a capacity of 12,400, will serve as the main venue for the contest. In addition to the main event, the adjacent St. Jakob Park—known locally as the “Joggeli”—will host the Eurovision Village, creating a vibrant hub for fans to gather, celebrate, and enjoy live performances. This setup showcases Basel’s ability to create a comprehensive and immersive experience for all attendees.
Cultural and Economic Impact
Hosting the Eurovision Song Contest is not just a cultural honor; it also brings significant economic benefits. Basel’s local government has committed between CHF 30 and 35 million to ensure the event’s success, including investments in infrastructure, security, and transportation. The economic impact is expected to extend beyond the city, benefiting neighboring regions and even cross-border areas in Germany and France.
Basel’s thriving LGBTQ+ scene and its commitment to inclusivity played a crucial role in its bid, further strengthening its appeal as the perfect Eurovision host. The city’s experience in hosting large-scale international events, such as Art Basel, has also demonstrated its capacity to organize and manage an event of this magnitude with precision and flair.
What’s Next for Basel?
With the host city now confirmed, Basel will enter a critical phase of planning and preparation. The city will collaborate closely with the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and SRG SSR to ensure that Eurovision 2025 is a spectacular success. From stage design at the St. Jakobshalle to organizing the Eurovision Village at St. Jakob Park, every aspect of the event will be meticulously planned to create an unforgettable experience for fans and participants alike.
Eurovoxx has been closely following the bidding process and will continue to provide in-depth coverage of Basel’s preparations leading up to Eurovision 2025. Stay tuned for exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes looks, and the latest updates as Basel prepares to host one of the world’s most beloved music competitions.
What do you think about Basel being chosen as the host city for Eurovision 2025? Do you believe the city will meet the high expectations set for it? Share your thoughts and join the conversation below!
Sources:
•SRF
