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Eurovision 2025 Kicks Off in Basel with First Semifinal and High Tensions

Sweden's KAJ leads bookmaker predictions, while protests over Israel's participation highlight the contest's political undertones.

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Overview

  • The first semifinal of the 69th Eurovision Song Contest begins tonight in Basel, Switzerland, featuring performances from 15 competing nations and three pre-qualified finalists.
  • Lucio Corsi, representing Italy with his song 'Volevo essere un duro,' will perform out of competition as part of the Big Five automatic qualifiers.
  • Pro-Palestinian protests during the opening ceremony targeted Israel's entry, represented by Yuval Raphael, a survivor of the 2023 Supernova festival attack.
  • Sweden's trio KAJ, performing 'Bara Bada Bastu,' is currently favored to win, according to bookmakers, with Austria's JJ also seen as a strong contender.
  • The event is broadcast across Rai platforms, Eurovision's YouTube channel, and Rai Radio 2, with Sandra Studer and Hazel Brugger hosting, joined by Michelle Hunziker for the final.