The Swiss press is ablaze with speculation, hope, and nostalgia: will Céline Dion make a sensational return to Eurovision in Basel this year?
Over the weekend, the legendary singer posted a series of Instagram photos captioned simply “Eurovision 1988 & 1989”, featuring throwbacks from her iconic early years. For fans across Europe—and especially in Switzerland—this was no ordinary post. It was a spark that lit a media frenzy.
Céline’s Eurovision victory for Switzerland in 1988 remains one of the contest’s most iconic moments. Her song “Ne partez pas sans moi” won by just one point in Dublin, launching what would become a truly global career. The following year, she returned as a superstar guest in Lausanne. Since then, however, Céline has rarely referenced her Eurovision beginnings.
Now, with Eurovision returning to Swiss soil for the first time in decades, speculation is mounting. Could the queen of Swiss Eurovision history return to the stage—or the city?
Her Name Is In the Scripts…
According to reputable Swiss outlets such as lematin.ch, Céline Dion’s name appears in official scripts shared with the press. She is expected to be honored during the first semi-final on May 13 in a segment titled “Homecoming,” and two minutes are reportedly reserved for her during the grand final on May 17.
Whether this will be a video message or a physical appearance in Basel remains unclear. For now, organizers are keeping their cards close to their chest.
A Cautious Mystery
It’s no secret that Céline has been battling Stiff-Person Syndrome, a rare and debilitating neurological disorder that forced her to cancel her 2023 tour. Her surprise performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics marked her return to public singing, but her health remains fragile.
Moritz Stadler, one of the Eurovision 2025 producers, recently said in a Swiss interview:
“Céline Dion and Eurovision in Switzerland go hand in hand—that’s clear. Will she be in Basel? In the show or not? There are many possibilities, and we’re working on it.”
In typical showbiz fashion, a thick cloud of mystery hangs over what could be one of Eurovision’s most emotional moments.
A Nostalgic Tsunami
If Céline Dion does appear—even for just a wave or a video message—it would be a full-circle moment for Swiss fans, who have embraced her as a national treasure since her 1988 win. Swiss media outlets from 20 Minutes to RTS are covering the possibility extensively, while fans online are already preparing for what could be a tearful, history-making homecoming.
Whether on stage, on screen, or simply in spirit—Céline Dion’s name is once again echoing through the halls of Eurovision. And Switzerland is listening.
Are you hyped ? Do you think Celine will grace us with a visit and even better a performance?
