Overview

• The 69th Eurovision Song Contest begins in Basel, Switzerland, with the first semifinal featuring 15 countries competing for 10 spots in the final.
• A new triple-reveal format debuts, showing three countries on screen for each finalist announcement, aiming to heighten suspense.
• Sweden's entry, KAJ, leads bookmaker odds with a 41% chance of victory, bolstered by the popularity of their song 'Bara bada bastu.'
• Political controversy surrounds last year’s winner Nemo, who called for Israel’s exclusion, a stance rejected by the European Broadcasting Union in defense of inclusivity.
• The event continues under the motto 'United By Music,' emphasizing unity and cultural exchange, with a focus on Swiss traditions and global diversity.